BJP Woman Worker Alleges Stripping, Assault by Police in Hubballi

January 7, 2026

A BJP woman worker in Hubballi, Karnataka, has alleged that she was stripped and assaulted by police officers during her arrest by Keshwapur police personnel. The claims have sparked a political controversy and drawn strong reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party.

According to reports, the woman identified as Sujatha Handi, also known as Vijayalakshmi, was detained amid a dispute linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in the region.

Video of the Incident Circulates Online

Footage shared on social media shows the woman surrounded by male and female police personnel inside a bus as she is being taken into custody. BJP leaders claim the video captures the alleged assault and the removal of her clothes during the process.

The BJP has condemned the action as “inhuman and politically motivated” and demanded strict action against the officers involved.

Police Deny Assault Allegations

Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner Shashi Kumar has rejected the claims, stating that proper procedures were followed during the arrest. According to police, the woman resisted arrest and misbehaved with officers, prompting a counter-complaint. The commissioner also said that she removed her own clothes while resisting custody, and denied that police were responsible for stripping her.

Officials emphasized that female police personnel ensured she was dressed appropriately after the altercation.

Background of the Arrest

The arrest reportedly followed a complaint by Congress corporator Suvarna Kallakuntla, who accused the activist of involving BLO officials improperly during the voter list revision exercise — an allegation Sujatha denies.

Police say the woman has multiple prior cases registered against her, and charges including resistance and assault on officers are part of ongoing proceedings.

Political Fallout

The incident has reignited political tensions in Hubballi, with BJP leaders attacking the police conduct and critics questioning law enforcement practices during contentious civic processes.

Both sides continue to present contrasting narratives as the controversy unfolds.