Basava Jayamruthyunjaya Swamiji, the leader of the Kudalasangama Panchamasali Peetha and a key figure in the movement for Lingayat Panchamasali community reservation, is facing serious allegations of rape, sexual harassment, and blackmail following a complaint by a woman from Bengaluru.
The woman has accused the Swamiji of sexually assaulting her and subjecting her to repeated harassment. She has lodged complaints with various authorities, including the Chief Minister and the State Women’s Commission, seeking action against him.
In response, Jayamruthyunjaya Swamiji has denied the allegations and filed a counter-complaint in Vijayapura, claiming that the woman, influenced by political figures, is attempting to defame him with false accusations.
The woman, a Bengaluru resident, alleged that the Swamiji assaulted her under the guise of offering ‘prasada’, behaved inappropriately, and recorded private videos during the incident. She further claimed that he used these videos to blackmail her, threatening to release them on social media if she did not comply.
The allegations, encompassing both physical and mental harassment, have sparked widespread attention and discussions. Authorities are currently investigating both the complaints and counter-complaints to ascertain the facts.
Congress Member of Legislative Assembly and National President of the Panchamasali community Vijayanand Kashappanavar has commented on the issue, suggesting that there may be truth to the allegations. He questioned the Swamiji’s character and actions, indicating that the matter is now before the court for legal proceedings.
