Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 8: The arrest of Nida Khan in the alleged TCS conversion and sexual exploitation case has sparked a fresh political controversy in Maharashtra, with state minister Sanjay Shirsat levelling allegations against former AIMIM MP Imtiaz Jaleel.

Khan, who had allegedly been absconding for nearly two months, was arrested by a joint team of the Nashik Crime Branch and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Police from a flat in Kaiser Colony in the Naregaon area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

She is among the accused in multiple cases involving allegations of sexual exploitation of women employees, attempts at forced religious conversion, outraging religious sentiments, molestation and mental harassment.

Officials said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing nine separate FIRs linked to the case.

Reacting to the arrest, Shirsat alleged that Khan had been hiding in a locality known for illegal activities and claimed she had received support from AIMIM leaders.

“Nida Khan was not alone. Her mother and aunt were with her. AIMIM openly backed her earlier as well. Imtiaz Jaleel had publicly spoken in her support,” Shirsat told reporters.

The Shiv Sena leader further alleged that the case pointed towards a “larger conspiracy” involving organised religious conversion and targeting of young women.

He claimed that similar activities were occurring in different parts of the state, including Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Shirsat also demanded that the SIT widen its investigation and probe the alleged network behind the case.

Questioning the source of funds, he alleged that young men without employment were being provided money and expensive motorcycles.

The minister further demanded that Imtiaz Jaleel also be questioned in connection with the matter.

Responding to the allegations, Jaleel criticised Shirsat and questioned his role in the investigation.

“Is he the investigating officer? Are the police now going to question me through a guardian minister?” Jaleel asked while speaking to reporters in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

He also claimed that Khan was being treated as if she was involved in terror activities despite there being no non-bailable offence or lookout notice against her.

The case has triggered widespread political debate in Maharashtra and continues to attract public attention as investigations progress.