Govt should initiate serious action against Jarkiholi: Ponnanna

The charges against the former minister on sexual harassment of a woman are serious in nature. The government has not taken serious action in this connection, alleged KPCC spokesperson A S Ponnanna.

Ponnanna, who took part in Gram Panchayat election campaigning in Gonikoppa and Ponnampet on Friday, said that three CDs are said to be there in the case. On the first CD, Ramesh Jarkiholi has submitted a four-lined complaint in Sadashivanagar police station, stating that it was a conspiracy to malign him. He has requested the police to investigate the same.

“But, it is not the job of the police to investigate defamation and conspiracy,” said Ponnanna.

Speaking on the second and third CD released by the woman victim, Ponnanna said that the woman has made an accusation of sexual harassment against Ramesh Jarkiholi.

She has alleged that the former minister misused her when she had gone to him, seeking a job. Even though it amounts to sexual harassment, the government has not taken any serious action, he said.

He also urged the government to provide complete protection to the victim and her family, as requested by her.

Ponnanna said, “SIT is meant to mislead the investigation. A faulty FIR has been registered against Ramesh Jarkiholi.”

Alleging that the maladministration by BJP has destroyed the hopes of people and the price hike has thrown normal lives out of gear, A S Ponnanna asked the people to elect Congress supported candidates in Gram Panchayat elections.