Bengaluru — A Bengaluru-based social worker has accused Karnataka BJP MLA Munirathna Naidu and three of his associates of gang rape, physical abuse, and psychological torture in a shocking case that has stirred public outrage across the state.
In a detailed complaint filed at Kaggalipura police station, the 40-year-old woman has alleged that she was sexually assaulted multiple times between 2020 and 2022 in various locations, including a warehouse owned by the MLA, his official vehicle, and even within the Vikasa Soudha — the state’s administrative building.
The survivor further claims that on one occasion in June 2023, she was injected with an unknown virus and urinated on by the accused. According to the FIR, the act was not only meant to humiliate but to allegedly infect her and psychologically control her. These grave accusations have raised fears of targeted abuse and planned criminal intimidation.
The woman also stated that she was blackmailed with explicit videos and coerced into assisting in politically motivated honey-trapping operations orchestrated by Naidu and his circle. She claimed that the MLA used women — including some who were HIV positive — to trap his political rivals in compromising situations.
Following an investigation by the Karnataka CID’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), a 2,481-page chargesheet was submitted, detailing evidence, witness testimonies, and digital proof linking the accused to a wider criminal network involving blackmail, conspiracy, and abuse of office. The chargesheet includes testimonies from over 140 witnesses and more than 800 documents.
MLA Munirathna was arrested in September 2024 but was released on conditional bail the following month. The court directed him to cooperate with investigators and strictly barred any form of witness tampering or evidence destruction.
The case has reignited concerns over women’s safety and the impunity of those in power. Women’s rights activists and opposition leaders are calling for an impartial judicial probe and the immediate resignation of the MLA from all official duties.
As the investigation continues, the survivor has appealed for protection and fair trial, stating that her life remains under threat due to the political influence of the accused.
