Child-rapist SI beaten by locals in Raj; arrested

JAIPUR: The police sub-inspector accused of raping a minor girl in Rajasthan’s Dausa district has been arrested and a case registered against him under relevant sections, including Pocso Act and the SC/ST Act, officials said on Saturday.

The police officer was detained and suspended on Friday. The opposition BJP attacked the Congress government in the state over law and order after the case surfaced, alleging that while the Centre believes in “beti bachao”, the Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot-led dispensation in Rajasthan stands for “rapists bachao”. Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra condemned the incident, saying it brings shame to the entire society, and instructed Director General of Police Umesh Mishra to take strict action.

The minor was allegedly lured into a room by Sub-Inspector Bhupendra Singh and raped on Friday afternoon, police said, adding that Singh was suspended on Friday itself and a report of his misconduct was sent to the IGP of Jaipur Rural for further action. The incident which took place in the Lalsot area sparked a huge protest. Local people in large numbers gheraoed the Rahuwas police station and raised slogans against the police. A video has surfaced online purportedly showing a mob dragging the accused on the road and beating him with shoes and sticks as his clothes were torn away.

The minor underwent a medical examination and her condition is stable. The girl’s exact age is yet to be determined but is estimated to be around four to five years, police said.

Dausa Superintendent of Police Vandita Rana said an FIR has been registered against the accused under sections of the Indian Penal Code, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act based on a complaint by the girl’s parents.

“The case is being investigated by an additional SP-rank officer. The statement of the victim girl has been recorded,” she added.