A 21-year-old man, Sultan Khan, has been arrested by Kotwali police in Rajasthan’s Bhilwara for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl after befriending her online using a fake identity, officials said. The complaint, lodged by the survivor’s father, further alleges that the accused recorded explicit videos to blackmail her and pressured her to convert her religion.
Police have clarified that while the rape case is under active investigation, the alleged religious conversion angle is being examined separately to ensure a fair probe. Multiple teams were formed under the direction of senior officials, leading to the arrest. The accused is currently being questioned, and authorities have assured strict action against anyone found guilty, even as local groups have demanded justice.
Online Deception, Blackmail, Assault Probe
According to Kotwali Station House Officer Shivraj Gurjar, the accused is believed to have created a fake identity on social media to establish contact with the minor. Investigators say he gradually gained her trust before calling her to meet him in person. During this meeting, he allegedly recorded obscene videos of the survivor, which were later used as a tool of coercion.
Police officials state that the accused then threatened to circulate these videos on social media platforms, creating fear and pressure, and subsequently sexually assaulted her. The complaint also alleges that the accused later revealed his real identity and took the minor to a religious place, where he pressured her to convert her religion.
Bhilwara City Deputy Superintendent Sajjan Singh is currently leading a parallel inquiry into the allegations related to religious conversion, including any possible involvement of other individuals or religious figures. Superintendent of Police Dharmendra Singh had directed the formation of multiple police teams to investigate the matter swiftly.
Acting on these instructions, the police traced and arrested the accused, who is now in custody and undergoing interrogation. Officials have reiterated that all aspects of the case are being examined carefully, and evidence is being collected to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
Community Response And Ongoing Probe
The case has sparked reactions at the local level, with members of Hindu organisations reaching the Kotwali police station soon after the incident came to light. They demanded strict and immediate action against the accused and any others who may be involved.
In response, police officials assured the gathering that the case would be handled with seriousness and that stringent legal action would be taken against those found guilty. Authorities have registered the case under relevant sections of the law pertaining to sexual offences against minors and criminal intimidation, and have emphasised that due process will be followed at every stage.
Officials have also stressed that the allegations related to religious conversion are being handled separately to avoid conflating distinct aspects of the case. This approach, they say, is intended to ensure clarity in the investigation and prevent any premature conclusions.
Police continue to record statements, gather digital and forensic evidence, and verify claims made in the complaint. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to present their findings before the court. At present, the accused remains in custody, and further legal proceedings will follow based on the evidence collected.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Crimes involving minors are among the most serious offences and demand urgent, sensitive, and survivor-centric responses from both institutions and society. In this case, the allegations are deeply concerning and highlight the vulnerabilities that young individuals may face, particularly in the digital space where identities can be easily manipulated. It is crucial that the survivor receives full support, protection, and access to justice, while the investigation proceeds without bias or external pressure.
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