A video showing a “victory parade” held by one of the accused in the 2024 Hanagal gang rape case has gone viral, sparking public outrage and sharp criticism across the state. The parade took place in Akki Alur town, Karnataka, shortly after the accused was released on bail.
The accused, along with six others, had been arrested earlier this year after a woman alleged that she was gang-raped in January 2024. The incident reportedly occurred in a lodge in Hangal, where the accused allegedly attacked a couple from different faiths before dragging the woman to a nearby forest and assaulting her.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, the Haveri Sessions Court recently granted bail to the accused after the survivor was reportedly unable to identify them during proceedings. Those granted bail include Aptab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausip Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri — all residents of Akki Alur.
Following their release, one of the accused led a convoy of cars and bikes through the town in celebration. The visuals of the parade have drawn severe criticism on social media and among civil society groups, who say it undermines justice and intimidates survivors.
“It is disturbing that people accused of such a serious crime are celebrating publicly while the trial is still ongoing,” a local activist said.
The Haveri police initially booked the case under charges of moral policing. Gang rape charges were added later, based on the woman’s statement under Section 164 of the CrPC before a magistrate.
Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai had earlier criticized the Congress-led state government over the handling of the case, and now many are demanding a review of the bail decision and action against the celebratory conduct.
