Maharashtra: One Arrested in Harassment Case Involving Union Minister's Daughter; Search Continues for Six More
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Synopsis
On March 2, Jalgaon Police confirmed the arrest of one suspect in the harassment of Union Minister's daughter and other girls during a yatra in Muktainagar. The investigation is ongoing as authorities search for six additional suspects.
Key Takeaways
- One suspect arrested in harassment case.
- Incident occurred during Maha Shivratri Mela.
- Accused attempted to photograph victims.
- Charges include POCSO Act violations.
- Union Minister Khadse demands justice.
Muktainagar (Maharashtra), March 2 (NationPress) - The Jalgaon Police announced on Sunday the apprehension of one individual from a group of seven accused in the harassment case involving Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse's daughter and several other girls during a yatra in Kothali village in Muktainagar.
The incident occurred at the Maha Shivratri Mela, where a group of young men reportedly harassed the minister's daughter and other attendees. The accused also tried to take unauthorized pictures of them using mobile phones.
According to Jalgaon Deputy Superintendent of Police (DYSP) Krushnath Pingle, "On February 28, 2025, during the yatra in Kothali village, the accused -- Aniket Bhoi, Piyush More, Saham Koli, Anuj Patil, Kiran Mali, and Sachin Palvi -- engaged in stalking 3-4 girls at the fair and made inappropriate remarks."
"Based on the complaint filed by the victim's mother, we have registered a case under the POCSO Act and charges of molestation. One suspect has been apprehended, and efforts to locate the others are ongoing. Aniket Bhoi has two to four previous cases against him," he stated.
"A security guard accompanying the Union Minister was present with one of the victims at the event. A confrontation occurred with him as well. His complaint is also on record," he continued.
"There is no external pressure on our investigation. I have been present here for the past two days. These boys were part of the fair and committed this act. We have filed a case under charges of molestation, rioting, and the POCSO Act since the victim is under 18 years old. Furthermore, sections of the IT Act have been included due to video calls and other digital complaints. One arrest has been made, and the others will be taken into custody soon," assured the DYSP.
Earlier in the day, Raksha Khadse, along with her daughter, numerous supporters, and party workers, visited the police station to lodge a complaint.
Speaking to reporters, a visibly distressed Khadse expressed in Marathi (loosely translated), "I am here at the police station not solely as a Union Minister and MP but as a mother seeking justice."
"If a public representative's daughter can be harassed, then what does that mean for the safety of ordinary citizens? I plan to meet the Chief Minister and demand action against such incidents," she added.
Khadse also revealed that prior complaints had already been filed against the accused.
"These boys have recorded videos of four or five girls. Crimes against women are on the rise across the state, and the accused do not fear the law anymore. Many girls hesitate to come forward, but we must not remain silent. That is why I have personally filed this complaint," she stated.
