Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Udupi, Mar 21: Confidential sources have revealed that influential individuals from the local authority and administration are allegedly exerting pressure on the victim and the Lambani community union to withdraw the case related to the Malpe assault incident. As a consequence, the Lambani union leader in Malpe has stepped down from his position and dissolved the committee.
Further reports indicate that the victim and her companions are being coerced by the local administration and certain local leaders to hold a press conference declaring that they have no grievances regarding the assault and will not pursue legal action.
Sources also suggest that if the woman proceeds with legal action, the entire Lambani community may face a ban from Malpe and its surrounding areas.
It may be recalled that the investigation into the assault case, in which a woman was tied to a tree and beaten at Malpe port, is still ongoing. Five accused have been arrested so far, and two police constables have been suspended for negligence.
The victim, a woman from Vijayapura, was reportedly assaulted following accusations of stealing fish.