Karnataka BJP Leader Arun Kumar Puthila Booked For Alleged Sexual Assault, Blackmail

A sexual harassment case has been filed against Karnataka BJP leader Arun Kumar Puthila based on a complaint lodged by a 47-year-old woman.

According to the police, the complaint alleges that Puthila sexually assaulted the woman at a hotel in Bengaluru in June 2023. During the alleged assault, the woman claims that Puthila took photos, selfies, and videos, which he later used to blackmail her.

The FIR, registered in Dakshina Kannada district, charges Puthila with cheating, sexual harassment, and criminal intimidation.

The case has been filed under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including sections 417 (cheating), 354A (sexual harassment), and 506 (criminal intimidation).

Puthila, who gained prominence by contesting the Puttur Assembly elections as a rebel candidate against the BJP, later rejoined the party ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

His return to the BJP was seen as a crucial development, particularly given his previous stance as a dissident within the party ranks.