Bengaluru Crime: PG Owner Rapes College Student, Probe Underway

The Karnataka Police have apprehended a man in Bengaluru for allegedly assaulting a college student residing as a paying guest at his place. The suspect, Ashraf, was taken into custody after the student lodged a first information report (FIR) against him.

In her complaint, the student mentioned moving into Ashraf's accommodation 10 days prior. On Saturday night, Ashraf approached her room, offering "food and accommodation" only if she "cooperated" with him, according to media reports. When she declined, he forced her into his car and assaulted her in a nearby area. Despite attempts to reach out to a friend, she was unsuccessful. Ashraf later returned her to the PG.

Previous Incidents of Assault

A similar case emerged in Bengaluru in June involving a 21-year-old nursing graduate. She was reportedly assaulted by the owner of her PG facility at BTM Layout II Stage while working as a nurse at a private dental clinic. The incident occurred on June 21 when Ravi Teja Reddy, aged 40, interrogated the girls about a gold theft.

Reddy took the victim to another room under the pretext of questioning her about the theft. He then began touching her inappropriately. When she resisted, he slapped her and attempted further assault, as reported by media sources.

Legal Actions Taken

Following this incident, the nursing graduate filed a complaint against Reddy. The police arrested him and charged him under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 64 for rape, 74 for assault or use of criminal force intending to outrage modesty, and 75 for sexual harassment.

On Sunday morning, after the recent incident with Ashraf, the college girl approached authorities. Based on her account, Ashraf was arrested and she underwent medical examination as per Karnataka Police statements.