Did Bengal Police Serve Notice to Padma Awardee Monk Kartik Maharaj Over Rape Allegations?
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Synopsis
In a shocking development, Bengal Police have issued a notice to Padma awardee monk Kartik Maharaj concerning serious allegations. A woman has accused him of rape spanning six months back in 2013, igniting a political firestorm. This controversial case raises questions about justice and accountability in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Kartik Maharaj faces serious allegations of rape from 2013.
- The complaint was filed 12 years later, raising timing concerns.
- The case has ignited political tensions in West Bengal.
- Kartik Maharaj has denied all allegations against him.
- Police are conducting an investigation into the matter.
Kolkata, June 30 (NationPress) The Nabagram Police Station officers, part of the Murshidabad District Police, have served a notice to Padma Shree awardee monk Kartik Maharaj, who is affiliated with the Murshidabad unit of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha. He has been accused by a woman of raping her for a duration of six months back in 2013.
The alleged incidents of rape and forced abortion occurred between January and June of 2013, but the complaint was only filed last week.
In the notice, Kartik Maharaj is required to appear in person at Nabagram for questioning related to the case on Tuesday.
A copy of the notice was delivered from the Nabagram Police Station to the Murshidabad unit of Bharat Sevashram Sangha for handover.
However, Kartik Maharaj was not present at that time. After a brief wait, the officers handed the notice to a representative of the Ashram.
The situation has sparked a political controversy in the state regarding the allegations against Kartik Maharaj.
The ruling Trinamool Congress is emphasizing the situation, accusing the BJP of remaining silent on this rape case, as the accused monk is reportedly linked to the saffron party.
Conversely, the West Bengal BJP unit has raised questions about the timing of the complaint.
BJP leaders argue that the complaint was made 12 years after the supposed incident and coincides with the state administration facing scrutiny over the recent Kasba law college rape case.
In her statement to the Nabagram police last week, the woman claimed that Kartik Maharaj had offered her a job at Chanak Adivasi Abasik Balika Vidyalaya, one of the ashram's educational institutions, during their meeting in December 2012.
The survivor stated that she was provided accommodation in the school hostel in January 2013, with the promise of employment soon after.
The woman accused Kartik Maharaj of raping her at least 12 times between January and June 2013 and asserted that the monk threatened to commit suicide if she went to the police or informed anyone about the incidents.
Kartik Maharaj has categorically denied all charges leveled against him.
Point of View
The allegations against Kartik Maharaj warrant serious consideration. While the timing of the complaint raises questions, it is crucial to investigate thoroughly to uphold justice. The interests of the victim and the accused must be balanced with transparency and integrity. The implications of this case extend beyond individuals, impacting the community's trust in law enforcement and political entities.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Kartik Maharaj?
Kartik Maharaj is accused of raping a woman for six months in 2013, with the complaint being filed recently.
Why was the complaint filed so late?
The complaint was lodged 12 years after the alleged incidents, raising questions about the timing amidst political controversies.
What does Kartik Maharaj say about the allegations?
Kartik Maharaj has denied all allegations against him, asserting his innocence.
How has the political landscape reacted?
The ruling Trinamool Congress has criticized the BJP for remaining silent, while the BJP questions the timing of the complaint.
What steps are being taken by the police?
The police have served a notice to Kartik Maharaj, requiring him to appear for questioning regarding the allegations.
