Karnataka rape row: MLC targets LoP's wife

Marking yet another low in the political blame game over repeated incidents of rape in the state, a member of Karnataka legislative council today hit back at BJP leader K S Eshwarappa for his "loose comments" by asking him what if he rapes Eshwarappa's wife.
Eshwarappa yesterday found himself in the eye of a storm over his poser to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister K J George whether they will have feelings for victims of sexual assault in the state only if their daughters are "raped".
"Honorable leader of the Opposition (Legislative Council) has made a statement; I have seen him in the Council also, from the day he stepped into the Council he has not allowed the business to be conducted smoothly, because of such comments. He has to learn how to have control over his tongue," Ivan D'Souza told reporters.

"I'm feeling shameful to tell that Eshwarappa is the leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council that I represent. I had respect towards him; he has worked as minister and Deputy Chief Minister in the past.
"Such a person is today talking about what if Home Minister's daughter is raped? Chief Minister's daughter is raped? Shall I ask - what will happen if I rape Eshwarappa's wife? What will Eshwarappa do? What will be his reaction? This is not political culture," he said.
As his comments drew criticism from media and across party line, D'souza apologised to Eshwarappa and his family.

"...I have realised that what I said is wrong, I apologise to Eshwarappa and his family, I withdraw my words. I have also apologised to Chief Minister on this."
D'souza was in June nominated as a member of the Council.