In a deeply troubling incident that has sparked outrage across social media, three men are accused of publicly molesting and attempting to rape a 20-year-old woman in Nalanda district, Bihar. The incident, which occurred on March 26, only came to light this week when a disturbing video of the event, allegedly recorded by one of the suspects, was shared widely online.
The victim, who lives with her in-laws while her husband works in Maharashtra, reported that the harrowing incident took place as she was on her way to a local grocery store. According to her complaint, filed the day after the assault, she was violently dragged by the accused, groped, and subjected to an attempt at rape. The assailants reportedly tore her clothes during the attack and recorded the incident, further compounding her trauma.
As of now, two of the accused, identified as Ashok Yadav and Matlu Mahto, also known as Navneet Kumar Narottam, have been apprehended by law enforcement officials. The third suspect, identified as Ravikant Kumar, remains at large. The police have initiated a First Information Report (FIR) under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which addresses crimes related to molestation, the outrage of a woman’s modesty, attempts to rape, and intimidation of the victim. The accused are also facing charges under the Information Technology Act due to the nature of the recorded content that has circulated online.
The Police Station officer from Noorsarai, the area where the incident occurred, has confirmed the registration of the FIR and indicated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to expedite the inquiry into this grievous matter. The incident has triggered a wave of public indignation, with many demanding swift justice and stringent action against the perpetrators.
This incident sheds light on the ongoing challenges surrounding women’s safety in India, where public spaces can often become sites of harassment and violence. Advocacy groups and activists are calling for systemic changes to ensure better protection for women and harsher penalties for offenders who commit such heinous acts. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for justice and a safer environment for all women.
