FIR register against BJP leader Arun Kumar Puthila for alleged sexual harassment

MANGALURU: An FIR has been registered against BJP leader Arun Kumar Puthila, based on the complaint lodged by  a 47-year-old woman for alleged sexual harassment at the Dakshina Kannada women’s police station.

The woman alleged that Puthila sexually harassed her at a private hotel in Bengaluru in June 2023. She also alleged that he took photos and videos of the incident and blackmailed her. A case has been registered under sections 417, 354A, and 506 of BNSS.

BJP leader Puthila had contested the 2023 Assembly elections as an independent candidate from the Puttur constituency. The woman was his follower on social media and had also provided him with moral support. However, after getting to know him, he invited her to a private hotel, and he was threatened with committing suicide. She alleged that despite her opposition, he sexually harassed her and later distanced himself from her.

She claimed Puthila gradually reduced talk with her after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He completely exploited her, sexually harassed her, and was now maintaining distance. Fearing for him, she shifted her residence to Puttur and now she is living in a rented house with her daughter without a job or income.

As the woman victim said, “He has caused harm to me and my daughter, and that justice be served to us”. The woman has now requested justice and legal action against Puthila for his alleged crimes, for the injustice, exploitation, cheating on her and betrayed her.