Police in Bhopal have arrested two men after a Class 11 student alleged she was sexually assaulted and later blackmailed for money, officials said. The survivor is a minor and her identity has not been disclosed.
Police said the complaint was filed after the student informed her family about the alleged incidents.
Police outline sequence of events
According to police, the student, who studies at a school in the Shahpura area, became acquainted with one of the accused, identified as Ausaf Ali Khan, through a friend. Investigators allege the accused later took her to a secluded area in the Khanugaon locality, where the first assault allegedly took place inside a vehicle.
Police said a second accused, identified as Maaz Khan, is alleged to have recorded a video during the incident. Officials said the video was then used to threaten the student and demand money.
Extortion claim and vehicles seized
Police said the accused allegedly demanded Rs 1 lakh and threatened to circulate the video. Officials said the student managed to pay Rs 40,000, but investigators allege the threats and abuse continued.
Police said the alleged assaults involved multiple vehicles and that four cars, including two sedans and a Mahindra Thar, have been seized as part of the investigation.
Alleged pressure and wider probe ordered
Police also alleged that when the student stopped communicating with the accused, the video was sent to some of her friends. Officials said the complaint includes allegations that the accused pressured the student to convert to Islam and follow religious practices.
An official said a Special Investigation Team has been formed to investigate the case. The team, to be headed by an assistant commissioner of police, will also examine whether the accused targeted other women using a similar pattern.
Court production incident
Separately, an altercation was reported when one of the accused was produced before a court in Bhopal, during which he was allegedly assaulted by a group of lawyers before police intervened. Police have not said whether separate action will be taken in relation to that incident.
The investigation is ongoing, officials said.