NCW Intervenes as ‘Disrobed’ BJP Worker Video Triggers

New Delhi, January 9, 2026: A significant escalation in the Hubballi arrest controversy was witnessed on January 8, 2026, as the National Commission for Women (NCW) formally took suo motu cognisance of the viral video involving a female BJP worker. The Commission, led by Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, has demanded a detailed “Action Taken Report” from the Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) within five days. This intervention was prompted by disturbing footage showing the worker, Sujatha Handi, in a state of undress while being handled by police personnel, an act the NCW has termed a “grave violation of a woman’s dignity and personal liberty.”

Serious Directives to Karnataka Police

Specific directives have been issued by the NCW to ensure a “fair, impartial, and time-bound investigation” into the events that transpired in the Keshwapur police station limits. The Commission has requested that an FIR be registered against any erring officials if misconduct is established through the examination of video evidence. Furthermore, the state has been asked to provide immediate medical aid, psychological support, and legal compensation to the victim, emphasizing that the protection of a woman’s modesty must remain a priority regardless of the criminal charges she may face.

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Political Leaders Demand Accountability

The NCW’s involvement was met with strong approval from opposition leaders in Karnataka, including Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka, who likened the police conduct to that of “Dushyasana.” It was alleged by the BJP that the police acted with extreme brutality at the behest of political rivals during a dispute over voter list revision. Demands for the immediate suspension of the involved inspectors were made by several legislators, who argued that the incident has “made the state hang its head in shame” and reflects a total collapse of law and order under the current administration.

Police Version vs. Allegations of Brutality

Despite the mounting pressure, the Hubballi-Dharwad Police have continued to maintain that Sujatha Handi “stripped herself” inside the police vehicle to create a scene and evade arrest. It was stated by Commissioner N. Shashikumar that the accused has a history of nine criminal cases and had reportedly bitten and assaulted female constables during the scuffle. However, this version has been vehemently contested by Sujatha’s family, who alleged that they are being “pressured and threatened” by senior officers to sign statements absolving the police of any wrongdoing.

A Test for Women’s Safety Laws

As of January 9, 2026, the case has become a focal point for debates on women’s safety and custodial rights in India. It has been argued by human rights activists that even if a suspect resists arrest, the police are trained to handle such situations with dignity and should have formed a human shield to protect the woman’s modesty. With the NCW now monitoring the case closely, the Karnataka government faces an uphill task in proving its neutrality. The final report, due in less than a week, is expected to be a decisive factor in determining the legal consequences for the officers involved in this “high drama” arrest.