Bengaluru, Jan 13 (Reporter) Accusing the Congress government in Karnataka of minority appeasement, former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday pressed for an SIT probe, if not seek a court-monitored inquiry in the Hangal gangrape case, if required. "I demand an SIT probe conducted by a senior officer into this case, and they should inquire into the alleged gangrape and book the offenders with proper sections (under CrPC), and see that they get life imprisonment," he told reporters in a press conference here. Asked if the government fails to order an SIT probe, Bommai said, "We will resort to the legal course and seek court-monitored inquiry into the gangrape case," he said. Bommai also demanded an inquiry into the conduct of the local police as they were found wanting to take prompt and appropriate action. "The conduct of the local police should also be inquired. What made them register an FIR after five days, and what made them book under lighter sections of the CrPC? Why the woman was compelled to come out before the magistrate, and then a case of gangrape was built? There are two versions of the Superintendent of Police. So all these things should be probed," he said. Bommai also alleged that the police have diluted the gravity of the assault and gangrape case, and criticised Home Minister G Parameshwara for being complacent. "He says he has given standing instructions. What standing instructions has he given? If a woman complains of a gangrape, immediately FIR must be registered. They didn't act promptly. Half the people are arrested, another are at large," he said. Bommai said the Congress is trying to appease a certain community and playing vote-bank politics and added that whenever it is in power, the crime rate climbs up because all criminals have supported the party. "Therefore, in all major cities, there are illegal activities like gambling and the sale of illicit liquor are going on. And there is no fear of the police. All illegal activities are going on in broad daylight. Also, corruption in appointing police officers has led to total inaction. Therefore, common people are under great pressure. No woman can walk freely without fear," he alleged. There is no law and order in the state and it has turned into a jungle raj, Bommai said. "There has been a mass assault on women across the state, especially the vulnerable sections, The SC, ST, Dalit and minorities are under attack in the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government," he said...////...