What really happened at MG Road, Bangalore on New Year’s Eve 2017?

On New Year's Eve 2017, several alarming incidents of molestation and harassment were reported on MG Road and Brigade Road in Bengaluru. Here are the key details of what transpired:

Mass Molestation and Harassment

• Despite a significant police presence, with around 1,500 police personnel deployed in the area, numerous women were allegedly molested, groped, and subjected to lewd remarks by unruly mobs. The incidents occurred as large crowds gathered to celebrate the New Year45.

Eyewitness Accounts

• Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos where inebriated men went berserk, targeting women. Many women were seen running to police for help, and some were even attempting to protect themselves by holding their shoes as a form of defense4.

Police Response

• Initially, the police reported that no complaints had been filed, despite the widespread allegations. However, they later began examining footage from over 50 CCTV cameras in the area to identify the culprits and take action14.

Criticism and Controversy

• The incident sparked widespread outrage and criticism, with many questioning the effectiveness of the police presence and the comments made by some politicians. Home Minister G Parameshwara faced criticism for his remarks, which some perceived as insensitive. The National Commission for Women also took notice of the incident and issued notices to certain politicians for their comments14.

Security Measures

• Although a substantial number of police personnel were deployed, the sheer size of the crowd and the lack of immediate action by the police were cited as reasons for the inability to prevent these incidents. The police acknowledged the challenges and subsequently reviewed their security arrangements for future events24.

The 2017 New Year's Eve incidents on MG Road and Brigade Road highlighted significant gaps in public safety and crowd management, leading to enhanced security measures in subsequent years.