Hyderabad: Bandi Bageerath, the 23-year-old son of Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar, was booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act on Friday night for allegedly misbehaving with a 17-year-old girl and sexually harassing her. The case was registered at Pet Basheerabad police station after the girl's mother filed a complaint.
Cross Complaints Filed
In a parallel development, the Karimnagar II Town police registered a case against the girl and her parents based on a complaint by Bageerath. He alleged that the girl's family attempted to honey-trap him and demanded Rs 5 crore to not file a false police complaint against him.
Allegations by the Minor's Family
Late Friday night, the mother of the 17-year-old girl approached the police, claiming that Bageerath had been harassing her daughter for over six months. She further alleged that he misbehaved with her at a farmhouse in Moinabad. The police have registered a case under the Pocso Act and are investigating the matter.
Bageerath's Defense
Bageerath, in his defense, stated, "It is evident that this is a political hit job aimed at maligning me personally ahead of tomorrow's public meeting of the Prime Minister. I am confident that the judiciary will determine what is right and what is wrong." He maintained that the allegations are baseless and part of a conspiracy to tarnish his family's reputation.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked political reactions, with leaders from both sides commenting on the matter. The opposition has called for a thorough investigation, while the ruling party has expressed support for Bageerath, urging the public not to jump to conclusions before the legal process unfolds.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are currently examining evidence from both sides, including call records and witness statements. The minor has been sent for a medical examination, and her statement has been recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The investigation is expected to be completed soon, with authorities promising a fair and transparent process.
