Derogatory remarks: Laxmi Hebbalkar challenges CT Ravi to swear before Lord Manjunatha in Dharmasthala

BENGALURU: Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar has expressed outrage over BJP MLC C T Ravi’s alleged derogatory remarks. In a special interview with Public TV, she challenged CT Ravi to swear before Lord Manjunatha at Dharmasthala if he had not made those remarks. She said she will also be present in Dharmasthala with her family on that day and asked Ravi to come with his family too.

Hebbalkar stated that just like in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, where those who insulted women were punished, the same would happen here.

“If he says he used the word ‘frustrate’ , there is a lot of difference between that and the derogatory word. I have all the evidence to prove her allegations against him”, she said.

Hebbalkar stated that thousands of people are inspired by her to join politics. She emphasized that she wouldn’t tolerate insults and that those who disrespect women will face consequences, citing examples from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Regarding the video allegedly showing Ravi making derogatory remarks. She also said she has a video of  CT Ravi’s accident. However, she did not refuse that she called Ravi a “murderer,” saying she wouldn’t stoop to his level. “Am I as stupid as him, to stand up and speak on everything?” she asked.

Hebbalkar emphasized that she walks the path of Gandhi, not on the path of Godse, and won’t engage in petty arguments. Her comments came during a special interview with Public TV.

Speaking about the Council Chairman’s statement that there is no such video and that it is fake, Lakshmi Hebbalkar said, “The Chairman was the one who guided me on many things. He called me and consoled me. I don’t know why he said this, I am not senior enough to talk about his ruling.”

Hebbalkar also clarified that she wouldn’t accept an apology from Ravi, citing the importance of self-respect. She expressed disappointment with the Legislative Council Chairman’s response to the issue, saying they had previously guided and consoled her.