Did a BJP MLA's Son Rape a Woman and Threaten Her Life?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of sexual violence made against a political figure.
- Legal proceedings initiated with FIR filed under IPC.
- Need for victim protection highlighted in the case.
- Support from State Women’s Commission acknowledged.
- Calls for justice and accountability in society.
Bidar, July 21 (NationPress) A 25-year-old woman has made serious allegations against Prateek Chouhan, the son of Karnataka BJP MLA Prabhu Chouhan, claiming he raped her and threatening to take her own life along with her family if justice is not served.
In a statement to the press on Monday, she stated, “Prateek violated me under the false promise of marriage. MLA Prabhu Chouhan has publicly referred to me as a daughter, yet he has brought shame upon me.”
“I met Prateek through social media, where he assured me of marriage. Our relationship progressed, and he took me to a lodge in Bengaluru, where he assaulted me. Despite my plight, no local politician in Bidar has offered support; however, I am receiving assistance from the President of the State Women’s Commission and Bidar Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti,” she added.
“Following the incident, we got engaged, but since then, our wedding has been delayed repeatedly. The accused and his family are now tarnishing my reputation. After two years of engagement, I am being vilified. Prateek has sexually exploited me multiple times and is involved with several other women,” she continued.
She also recounted, “He took me to Shirdi, confining me in a room where he assaulted me again. On November 1, Prateek visited my home and urged me to harm myself with a blade if I truly loved him. When I resisted, he injured me, necessitating a trip to the hospital.”
“I feel betrayed by Prateek and demand justice. I have faith that the Bidar police will act justly. If they fail, my family and I will resort to suicide. We are also facing threats from MLA Prabhu Chouhan’s supporters and require protection. No one should endure what we are suffering,” she implored.
The woman has submitted an official complaint, leading the Bidar Women’s Police Station to file an FIR under Sections 376(2)(n) (repeated rape of the same woman), 506 (criminal intimidation), 366 (abduction of a woman with intent to compel marriage), and 324 (causing hurt with dangerous weapons) of the Indian Penal Code.