Ayodhya Rape Case Verdict: Moeed Khan Acquitted Amid Family's Allegations of Political Influence
In a significant development in the Ayodhya 2024 rape case, a POCSO court in Lucknow has delivered a verdict that has sparked controversy and allegations of political interference. The court acquitted former Samajwadi Party functionary Moeed Khan of all charges, while convicting his co-accused, domestic help Raju Khan, sentencing him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposing a fine of Rs 50,000.
Case Background and Allegations
The case dates back to July 29, 2024, when a 12-year-old girl was allegedly raped in Ayodhya's Bhadrasa area. The survivor's family named Moeed Khan and Raju Khan as the accused, with the minor being pregnant at the time the crime was reported. According to the prosecution, the survivor worked with Raju Khan, who allegedly introduced her to Moeed Khan nearly two-and-a-half months before the FIR was lodged. In her complaint, she accused both men of raping her, recording objectionable videos, and using those videos to threaten and sexually exploit her repeatedly over an extended period.
Following court orders, the survivor underwent a medical termination of pregnancy on August 7, 2024, at Queen Mary's Hospital in Lucknow. During the trial, DNA analysis reportedly confirmed that Raju Khan's DNA matched the foetal DNA, which played a crucial role in his conviction. However, the court found insufficient evidence to establish Moeed Khan's involvement beyond reasonable doubt, leading to his acquittal.
Family's Allegations and Emotional Outcry
The survivor's family has vehemently opposed the verdict, alleging political influence, lapses in the investigation, and manipulation of medical evidence. The mother of the minor girl broke down while speaking to reporters, claiming that Moeed Khan was being shielded due to his political connections. "People are protecting Moeed Khan. I feel the test reports have been changed. How can we forget what was done to my daughter?" she said.
She further highlighted the family's struggles, stating that being uneducated and poor, they could not secure effective legal representation. "We could not even argue properly. The police did not investigate the case honestly. Had the investigation been fair, Moeed Khan would not have been acquitted. We were not heard properly," she alleged. The family also expressed dissatisfaction with the punishment awarded to Raju Khan, arguing that he deserved the death penalty rather than 20 years in jail, as he had destroyed their daughter's life.
Political Reactions and Administrative Actions
The case has drawn significant political attention. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking in the state Assembly, claimed that Moeed Khan was associated with the Samajwadi Party and was part of an MP's team in Ayodhya. He also met the girl's family following the registration of the FIR. In response, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav demanded DNA tests of both accused, calling for a transparent investigation.
Soon after the case surfaced, the government initiated demolition action against properties linked to Moeed Khan. On August 22, 2024, his bakery and shopping complex were razed by the administration. Then Ayodhya district magistrate Chandra Vijay Singh stated that the structures were illegally built on pond land.
Legal Implications and Future Course
Despite the acquittal, Moeed Khan is not expected to be released immediately, as he remains in jail in connection with a separate case registered against him under the Gangsters Act. The survivor's family has vowed to challenge the verdict in the Allahabad High Court, seeking a re-examination of the acquittal and stricter punishment for all those involved. They claim that the acquittal was the result of political influence rather than a lack of evidence.
This case underscores the complexities and challenges in prosecuting high-profile individuals in sensitive criminal matters, raising questions about the integrity of investigations and the role of political connections in the justice system.
