Is a Former UP MLA Facing Allegations of Rape?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of sexual assault have been made against a former UP MLA.
- The incident reportedly took place in a hotel.
- The victim was in Bengaluru for a court marriage.
- Police investigations are ongoing.
- The case highlights the issue of sexual violence against women.
Bengaluru, Aug 18 (NationPress) A 40-year-old woman has reported that she was sexually assaulted by the former SP MLA Sribhagawan Sharma, known as Guddu Pandit, in Bengaluru, according to police statements made on Monday.
The police indicated that the alleged incident took place on Sunday, August 17, at the Taj Hotel located near Kempegowda International Airport.
In her report to the BIAL Airport police station, she mentioned arriving in Bengaluru on August 14 with her 8-year-old son. She claimed that her visit was intended for a court marriage with the 51-year-old former MLA.
Following her arrival, the accused reportedly took her to various locations in Bengaluru and subsequently to Chitradurga city in central Karnataka, before returning to the Taj Hotel on August 17, police confirmed.
The victim alleged that while staying in room number 582, the accused took numerous photos and videos with her before committing the act of rape. She further accused Guddu Pandit of threatening her with severe repercussions when she said she would report him to the police.
Allegedly, the accused then abandoned the woman and her son in the hotel room and fled the city, as stated by the police. A case has been filed under the provisions of Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for sexual intercourse using deceitful means.
After waiting in the hotel room for the accused to return, she eventually contacted the police to file her complaint after realizing he would not be coming back. Initial investigations have indicated that the accused had promised the victim a registered marriage before the crime occurred.
It has also emerged that the victim had been in a live-in relationship with the accused former MLA from the Debai Assembly Constituency in UP's Bulandshahr district since 2017. Additionally, it is alleged that they have a son from this relationship.
Reports indicate that the victim had previously approached the police in Uttar Pradesh regarding a domestic issue involving the accused.
Investigations into this case are ongoing.