KSE regrets remarks, apologises to reporter

Former deputy chief minister K S Eshwarappa in Shivamogga on Sunday offered profound regrets following his poser on Saturday to a woman reporter of a TV channel, that attracted widespread criticism.

The day also saw former chief minister B S Yeddyurappa, in Gadag, advising Eshwarappa to be extremely cautious while speaking about cases of rape on women. Yeddyurappa was speaking to reporters in the city. He has suggested that Eshwarappa should not speak lightly about women. Eshwarappa, the leader of the Opposition in the Council, had asked the reporter as to what the Opposition could do if someone were to drag her and rape her.

Speaking to reporters, Eshwarappa said that his statement had been misinterpreted. But he would apologise to the reporter if his answer to her question had hurt her.

He added that high respect for women. He said he did not want to precipitate the matter as he was aware that the episode had caused her immense pain. Eshwarappa said that he would also apologise to the people of the State and all those who were pained at his remarks.