A disturbing case involving the alleged sexual assault of an 11th-grade student has triggered outrage in Madhya Pradesh’s capital, Bhopal. Police have arrested two men in connection with the incident and seized four vehicles that were allegedly used during the crime. Authorities have also constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a detailed probe, as investigators examine digital evidence and potential lapses within the police system.
According to officials, the primary accused, identified as Ausaf Ali Khan, was arrested on February 3 and subsequently remanded to judicial custody. A second accused, Maj Khan, who reportedly runs a gym in the city, was arrested on February 8 and remains in police custody at Kohefiza police station for interrogation.
Allegations of Assault Across Multiple Locations
Preliminary investigation suggests that the minor survivor was allegedly assaulted at different locations inside four separate vehicles. Among the cars seized is a Thar SUV, which police believe was used during at least one of the incidents.
During questioning, investigators claim that Maj Khan admitted the primary accused assaulted the minor inside the Thar vehicle in the Khanugaon area while he remained outside. Police allege that the incident was secretly recorded on a mobile phone through the vehicle’s window.
Officials say the video was subsequently used as a tool for blackmail. The accused allegedly demanded ₹40,000 from the minor, threatening to circulate the footage online if their demands were not met. Investigators further suspect that the survivor may have been coerced into further exploitation under continued threats of exposure.
The Thar SUV was later recovered from a village in Sehore district, where it had reportedly been hidden. However, the mobile phone allegedly used to record the video has not yet been traced. Police are currently working to retrieve digital evidence, including call records, location data, and possible online transmissions.
Formation of Special Investigation Team
Given the seriousness and complexity of the allegations, Bhopal police have constituted a Special Investigation Team to oversee the case. Senior officers said the SIT is examining all aspects, including forensic evidence, digital trails, and financial transactions linked to the alleged extortion.
Authorities have stated that statements from the survivor and key witnesses have been recorded in accordance with legal procedures. Forensic teams are analysing the seized vehicles for additional evidence.
Police officials emphasised that the investigation is ongoing and that all angles, including the possibility of involvement by others, are being examined.
Alleged Police Link Under Scrutiny
During the course of the investigation, officials reportedly uncovered alleged links between one of the accused and a head constable posted at Kohefiza police station. The officer is accused of leaking sensitive information related to the case to the accused.
Following internal inquiry, the head constable has been placed under suspension pending further investigation. Senior police officials have stated that departmental action will follow if wrongdoing is established.
“The integrity of the investigation is our top priority. Any official found compromising the process will face strict consequences,” a senior officer said.
Community Reaction and Legal Framework
The case has sparked widespread concern in Bhopal, with citizens calling for swift justice and stronger safeguards for minors. Child rights activists have emphasised the importance of ensuring psychological support for the survivor and protecting her identity, as mandated by law.
Under Indian law, sexual offences involving minors fall under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which provides stringent punishment for offenders and mandates time-bound investigation and trial. Charges under the Indian Penal Code related to assault, criminal intimidation, and extortion are also likely to be invoked, depending on the final findings.
Legal experts note that cases involving digital blackmail add an additional layer of complexity, requiring coordinated cyber forensic examination and careful handling of electronic evidence.
Ongoing Investigation
Police officials have reiterated that the investigation is at a critical stage. Digital forensics experts are attempting to locate the missing mobile device and determine whether any footage was circulated or stored on cloud platforms.
Investigators are also verifying whether the accused acted independently or if a broader network may be involved. Financial records are being examined to trace any transactions linked to the alleged extortion demand.
Authorities have appealed to the public to refrain from circulating unverified information or speculative content on social media, warning that misinformation could hamper the investigation and cause further harm to the survivor.
As the SIT continues its probe, officials have assured that all individuals found culpable irrespective of position will be held accountable under the law.
The case underscores growing concerns around crimes involving digital coercion and exploitation, highlighting the need for vigilant law enforcement, responsible digital behaviour, and robust institutional safeguards.
