MP Police Launch Investigation into Alleged Rape and Forced Conversion of Three Minor Girls in Ashoknagar
In a distressing incident, Madhya Pradesh Police have officially registered a case following a complaint that alleges the rape and forced religious conversion of three minor girls in Ashoknagar district. The case was filed on Friday, with authorities swiftly initiating efforts to apprehend the accused individuals involved in this serious matter.
Complaint Lodged by Mother and Minors at Piprai Police Station
A woman, accompanied by her minor daughter and two of her daughter's minor friends, approached the Piprai police station in Ashoknagar district to lodge a formal complaint. According to the complaint, the incidents occurred over a period, with the victims detailing harrowing experiences of sexual assault and coercion into religious conversion.
Sub-divisional officer of police (SDOP) Vivek Sharma provided details, stating, "The mother, along with the three minors, reported that her daughter had been staying at her maternal uncle's house in Mandideep, located in Raisen district approximately 25 kilometers from Bhopal. On April 14, when the girl returned home with her two friends, she was observed wearing a burqa. Upon inquiry, she disclosed that Altamash Khan, a resident of Bhopal, had raped her about four months ago, forcibly converted her religion, and entered into a marriage with her."
He further explained, "Similarly, Altamash Khan's two friends, identified as Aahan Khan and Aahat Sheikh, are alleged to have committed the same acts against the other two minor girls, involving rape and forced religious conversion. All three victims are minors, and their statements are currently being recorded as part of the ongoing investigation."
Legal Charges and Police Action Underway
Based on the woman's statement, police have filed a comprehensive case at Piprai police station. The charges include sections under the SC/ST Act, provisions related to rape, and the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, which addresses forced conversions. Authorities are treating the matter with utmost urgency.
SDOP Vivek Sharma emphasized, "Acting promptly on the complaint, police teams along with technical support units have been dispatched to locate and arrest the accused individuals. We are committed to taking strict action based on the evidence gathered, and efforts are being made to ensure justice is served as quickly as possible."
The investigation is ongoing, with police focusing on collecting evidence and verifying the allegations. The identities of the victims have been kept confidential in accordance with Supreme Court directives to protect privacy in cases of sexual assault.
This case highlights critical issues of child safety and religious freedom in the region, prompting a robust response from law enforcement to address the grave allegations and ensure accountability.
