Seven men accused in a January 2024 gang rape case in Haveri, Karnataka, sparked national outrage after being paraded in a celebratory roadshow following their release on bail.
The event, which lacked police permission, began at the Haveri sub-jail and concluded in Akki Alur town, around 25 kilometres away.
The accused — Aftab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausif Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri — were seen in videos circulating on social media flashing victory signs from a convoy of five vehicles. They were accompanied by more than 20 supporters.
A case has now been filed against the seven men for conducting the procession without official clearance. “They will be arrested and produced before the court soon,” a Haveri police official told Hindustan Times.
The case originated on January 7, 2024, and reportedly began as an act of moral policing related to an interfaith relationship. The victim and her partner were attacked in a hotel near Hanagal by the group. She later stated that she was abducted, assaulted, and left near a lodge, from where the lodge staff alerted authorities on January 10.
Charges were filed under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including gang rape. Investigations revealed that several of the accused had prior records involving acts of moral policing and violence against women in Hangal village. Investigators also uncovered video evidence reportedly showing the abduction and assault.
Out of 19 people arrested in connection with the case, 12 were previously granted bail. The remaining seven were recently released after the victim failed to identify them in court, leading the Haveri Additional District and Sessions Court to approve their bail — despite prior rejections.
The celebratory nature of the procession has provoked sharp criticism and raised fresh concerns about justice for survivors.