Jamui molestation: BJP's Saraogi says exposing minor victim's identity equally guilty
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bihar Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Sanjay Saraogi on 22 September strongly condemned the molestation incident in Jamui, Bihar, while also holding accountable those who shared the identity of the minor victim on social media, calling them 'equally guilty' under the law.
Saraogi's Remarks on the Incident
Sanjay Saraogi said, 'Such incidents cannot be accepted in a civilised society under any circumstances. One cannot condemn it enough... The police registered an FIR, formed an SIT, and arrested three people as soon as the incident came to light. The police are continuously conducting raids to arrest the main accused, who will be arrested soon.'
He added a firm warning against those who circulated the victim's identity online: 'The people who revealed the identity of the victim on social media are also at fault. One's identity can't be revealed on social media in such cases. People who revealed the minor's identity will be punished too.'
What Happened in Jamui
A viral video depicting the harassment of two Class 10 students — including a girl — in Jamui district sparked outrage across Bihar and reignited debates over women's safety and law and order in the state. According to reports, the students were returning from their coaching classes on a scooter when a group of youths intercepted them, molested the girl, and assaulted the boy. So far, three arrests have been made, while the search for the main accused is reportedly ongoing.
Swipe at the Opposition
Responding to criticism from the Opposition, Saraogi trained his sights on Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, questioning the latter's own record on women's safety. 'Many cases have happened in the past too. Many incidents like this happened when his father (Lalu Prasad Yadav) was in power. However, such incidents can't be tolerated. The police are vigilant, and three arrests have been made in the matter. The main accused will also be arrested; no one will be forgiven,' he said.
Saraogi on Yogi's Remarks and SP
The BJP leader also weighed in on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's comments targeting the Samajwadi Party (SP). Saraogi claimed that the SP is 'opposed to Sanatan Dharma and Sanatan culture' and alleged that the party resorts to communal polarisation ahead of elections. He also referred to the Babri Masjid demolition in Ayodhya, alleging that the SP carried out lathi charges and firings on Ram devotees at the time — claims attributed to Saraogi and not independently verified.
What Comes Next
With the Jamui incident triggering political crossfire, pressure is mounting on the Bihar administration to ensure swift justice. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted for the case is continuing its probe. Legal action against individuals who exposed the minor victim's identity on social media is also reportedly being considered, according to Saraogi's statement.