Hanagal Rape Accused's Celebration Sparks Outrage, Bail Cancellation Sought

The Hanagal rape case has taken a shocking turn as Karnataka Police are pushing to cancel the bail of seven men accused in the horrific crime. A video surfaced showing the accused celebrating their release with a convoy of cars, loud music, and victory signs, triggering massive public outrage.

Celebration Sparks Outrage

The video showed the accused parading through Akki Alur town in a five-car convoy, accompanied by supporters. One of the accused even flashed victory signs from a car sunroof while the group recorded the event and shared it on social media. The Superintendent of Police, Anshu Kumar, confirmed the procession occurred while returning from sub-jail to Akkihalur.

A case has been registered under sections 189/2, 191/2, 281, 351/2, 351/3, and 190 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police have taken into custody five of the accused and plan to seek bail cancellation due to violation of conditions and public nuisance. The accused are Aftab Chandanakatti, Madar Saab Mandakki, Samiwulla Lalanavar, Mohammad Sadiq Agasimani, Shoib Mulla, Tausip Choti, and Riyaz Savikeri. The original bail was granted on May 20th.

The Hanagal rape case began in January 2024 when several men stormed into a hotel room occupied by an interfaith couple. Initially reported as a moral policing case, the survivor later alleged abduction and gang rape in a nearby forest.