Bhopal Minor Allegedly Raped By Friend, Filmed And Pressured To Convert To Islam; SIT Formed To Probe

• Bhopal Police has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged gang-rape and blackmail of a minor student.
• Two accused have been arrested, while a police constable has been suspended over alleged links.
• Investigators are examining if more victims were targeted and if a wider conspiracy exists.

Days after a disturbing case involving the alleged gang-rape, blackmail and forced religious conversion of a minor girl surfaced in Bhopal, the city police has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a detailed probe.

Officials said the team will investigate the full extent of the crime and possible involvement of others.

SIT formed for detailed probe

The four-member SIT will examine digital evidence, financial transactions and the role of all accused in the case. Police said the investigation will also look into whether other women were targeted and if the acts were part of a planned pattern.

What investigators are focusing on:

• Possible wider network and involvement of additional suspects
• Allegations and sequence of events

According to the complaint, the Class 11 student from Shahpura allegedly met the main accused through a friend and was later taken to a secluded area on the pretext of a drive. Police said she was assaulted and an objectionable video was allegedly recorded, which was later used to blackmail her.

The accused allegedly continued to threaten her and demanded money, while also circulating the video among her contacts after she resisted. Authorities say the minor eventually informed her family, leading to a formal police complaint.

Arrests and legal action

Following the FIR filed on February 2, police arrested the two main accused and invoked provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Freedom of Religion Act and the Information Technology Act. Several vehicles allegedly used in the crime have also been seized during the investigation.

Investigators said the accused allegedly pressured the minor to change her religion and follow specific practices, adding another serious dimension to the case. The SIT is verifying all claims as part of the ongoing probe.

Constable suspended

A head constable posted at a local police station has been suspended for allegedly sharing confidential information with one of the accused. His role is being examined and departmental action has been initiated.

Tensions were reported during one of the court hearings when some lawyers allegedly confronted and assaulted an accused. Police intervened to control the situation and ensure security in the court premises.

Officials said the SIT will continue questioning suspects and gathering evidence as the investigation progresses.