Daijiworld Media Network- Bhopal
Bhopal, Apr 25: In a shocking incident that has come to light in Bhopal, two men were arrested for allegedly raping and blackmailing college students from a private engineering college. The accused reportedly befriended the victims before using private videos to coerce them into forced conversions and marriages.
The case began when a 19-year-old woman approached the police earlier this month, alleging that a college friend named Farhan had raped her and used private videos to blackmail her. The woman claimed that she was then forced to introduce her friends to Farhan and his associate, Sahil, who subsequently raped and blackmailed them as well. One of the survivors in this case is a minor.
The accused, who allegedly concealed their identities to befriend the students, are now facing serious charges. The police have formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the matter further. According to the authorities, the case has disturbing similarities to the infamous Ajmer rape case, which also involved multiple victims trapped in a web of exploitation.
Farhan and Sahil have been arrested, and three separate Zero FIRs have been registered across various police stations, including Bag Sewania, Jehangirabad, and Ashoka Garden. These charges include violations under the POCSO Act, the IT Act, and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as well as the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act.
During the investigation, police discovered videos on the accused’s phones, which led to the identification of additional suspects and survivors. Police Commissioner Harinarayan Chari Mishra confirmed the arrests and stated that the SITs are investigating the case with the utmost seriousness. He also confirmed that one of the victims was a minor, which has led to charges under the POCSO Act.
Sources reveal that many victims have not yet come forward due to fear of defamation and societal stigma. To support the survivors, the police have offered counselling services. Authorities suspect that the gang may have operated systematically and potentially targeted other students as well.
The case continues to unfold, with the investigation ongoing to ensure justice for the victims.