Malpe Assault Victim Lakki Bai Requests Leniency for Attackers, Plans Return to Village
Udupi: Lakki Bai, the woman subjected to a brutal assault at Malpe harbor on March 18th, has publicly addressed the incident, stating that she desires no punishment for those involved despite the trauma she endured. The assault stemmed from accusations that Lakki Bai had stolen fish.
Speaking to the media in Malpe, Lakki Bai recounted the events of the day, stating, “I had caught a little fish that day. They accused me of stealing fish and assaulted me.” The incident, she explained, has rendered her unable to continue working at the harbor after six or seven years of labor there. “It’s difficult for me to work here now, so I will return to my village,” she confirmed.
While acknowledging the commonplace nature of petty theft at the harbor, Lakki Bai expressed that she felt powerless during the incident. More remarkably, she conveyed a desire to move past the event and avoid any further repercussions for her attackers. “In this case, no one should be punished. Each to their own; we will take care of our responsibilities,” she declared.
Lakki Bai further revealed that an initial agreement was reached between herself and her assailants not to involve law enforcement. However, she claims external pressure from higher authorities compelled them to register a formal complaint. “That night, we discussed the matter and agreed not to file a case. We had decided against it, but due to pressure from above, we were called back to register the case,” she stated.
Lakki Bai’s decision to prioritize forgiveness and request leniency underscores the complexities of the situation and raises questions regarding the pursuit of justice. Her imminent departure from Malpe marks a poignant conclusion to a chapter marred by violence and the struggle to reconcile personal relationships with the formal processes of the legal system. The future of the case remains uncertain in light of Lakki Bai’s public pronouncements.
