A man has been booked for allegedly raping two sisters in Maharashtra's Palghar district, police said on Sunday. The accused has been identified as a resident of the same locality. According to the complaint, the sisters, aged 19 and 21, were subjected to repeated sexual assault over a period of time. The incident came to light when one of the victims confided in a family member, leading to a police complaint.
BJP leader alleges 'love jihad'
A local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader has alleged that the case is a classic example of 'love jihad', a term used by right-wing groups to describe an alleged conspiracy by Muslim men to lure Hindu women into relationships and marriage to convert them to Islam. The leader claimed that the accused had befriended the sisters under the pretext of love and then exploited them. However, police have not confirmed any communal angle to the case and are investigating all aspects.
Police investigation underway
The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including rape and criminal intimidation. The accused has been taken into custody and is being interrogated. Senior police officials said that they are collecting evidence and recording statements of witnesses. The victims have been sent for medical examination, and their statements have been recorded under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure before a magistrate.
Reactions and concerns
The case has sparked political reactions, with the BJP leader demanding a thorough investigation and strict action against the accused. Opposition parties have criticized the 'love jihad' allegation, calling it a diversionary tactic. Women's rights activists have expressed concern over the use of such terms to communalize crimes against women. They have urged the police to focus on the criminal aspect of the case and ensure justice for the victims.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents demanding safety and security for women. The police have assured that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the guilty to justice.
