Datia Minor Rape Case: Accused Booked for Repeated Assault on 17-Year-Old

Datia (Madhya Pradesh): Police in Datia district have registered a case against a man accused of raping a 17-year-old girl twice, using morphed photographs and videos to blackmail her and issuing death threats to her family.

The incidents came to light late on Thursday night when the minor, accompanied by her parents, reached Basai police station and lodged a complaint. Police have booked the accused, identified as Veeru Ahirwar, under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Teams have been formed to trace and arrest him.

First Assault in Fields

According to the complaint, the first incident occurred nearly two months ago. The girl was on her way to the fields in the afternoon when the accused allegedly approached her from behind on a secluded path. He overpowered her, dragged her into nearby bushes, and assaulted her. 

When she resisted, he allegedly slapped her and threatened to kill both her and her father. The accused also captured photographs and videos of the act on his mobile phone. Fearing social stigma and the threats, the teenager chose to remain silent at the time.

Second Incident on May 18

The nightmare continued on May 18. The girl alleged that Veeru Ahirwar stopped her again on a village path and, using the previously recorded photos and videos as leverage, threatened to make them viral if she did not comply. He then allegedly raped her for the second time.

Even after the second assault, the girl initially hesitated to speak out due to continuous threats from the accused. Sources familiar with the case said the family faced immense pressure and fear of reputational damage in the close-knit rural community.

Family Breaks Silence

The situation escalated when the accused reportedly continued issuing threats to the family, including dire warnings against the girl’s father. This persistent intimidation finally compelled the minor to confide in her parents. On Thursday evening, the family decided to approach the police.

“Initial reports indicate that the family had been living in fear for weeks,” a police officer said, requesting anonymity. The complaint was formally registered late Thursday night at Basai police station.

Police Action Underway

Datia police have taken the matter seriously given the minor’s age and the repeated nature of the crime. A senior officer confirmed that multiple teams are actively searching for Veeru Ahirwar. “We have registered the case and are investigating all angles. The accused will be arrested soon,” the officer added.

Forensic and medical examination of the victim has been initiated as per protocol in POCSO cases. Police are also examining the mobile phone records and any possible digital evidence related to the alleged blackmail material.

Impact on Local Community

The case has sent ripples of concern through the villages under Basai police station limits. Residents expressed shock over the repeated assaults and the use of digital blackmail, a growing concern in rural areas with increasing mobile phone penetration.

Women’s rights activists in the region have called for swift action and better safety measures for girls traveling on isolated paths, especially in agricultural areas. Such incidents often highlight the vulnerabilities faced by young girls in parts of Madhya Pradesh despite various government schemes for women’s safety.

Background and Similar Cases

Datia, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, has witnessed occasional reports of crimes against women, though officials maintain that the overall law and order situation remains under control. The district administration has in the past run awareness campaigns regarding POCSO and cyber blackmail.

This case once again brings into focus the challenges of timely reporting in sexual assault cases involving minors, where fear of social ostracization often delays justice.

Police have appealed to the public to provide any information regarding the whereabouts of the accused. They have assured complete protection to the victim and her family.

As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to update on further developments in the coming days. The minor is currently being provided necessary counselling and support through district authorities.