The town of Jobat in Madhya Pradesh's Alirajpur district came to a complete standstill on Wednesday as a widespread bandh was observed. The shutdown was called by Hindu organisations and local community groups following public outrage over an alleged incident of sexual harassment and religious conversion.
Widespread Shutdown and Protest Demands
The bandh saw massive participation from the local community. Major markets, shops, hotels, and wholesale establishments remained closed since morning, reflecting the intensity of the public sentiment. Demonstrators took to the streets with a primary demand: the demolition of the houses belonging to the accused individuals.
Residents and representatives of right-wing organisations have labeled the assault on the young woman as extremely serious. They have accused the local authorities of delaying strict action against the perpetrators, which fueled the anger leading to the bandh.
Details of the Alleged Incident and Police Action
According to local accounts, the incident occurred on Monday. It is alleged that a young woman was lured on the pretext of a job offer. She was then reportedly subjected to obscene acts and targeted in what the community claims was a case of religious conversion coupled with sexual harassment.
Police initially registered a case against three accused persons under various sections of the law on Monday evening. The situation escalated later that night when the woman informed her family that she had been raped, confirming a more severe assault.
In response to the growing tension, the youth wing JAYS submitted a memorandum to Additional Superintendent of Police Pradeep Patel on Tuesday. The memorandum pressed for immediate 'bulldozer action' against the accused, referring to the demolition of their properties.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
ASP Pradeep Patel confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in connection with the case. He stated that a thorough investigation is currently underway to ascertain all facts and ensure appropriate legal steps are taken.
The bandh in Jobat highlights the volatile mix of allegations involving crime and religious identity in the region. It underscores the community's demand for swift and decisive action from law enforcement agencies, with the protest serving as a powerful display of collective anger and a call for justice.
