According to the First Information Report (FIR), the accused, identified as Sohel, 30, son of Ismail Qureshi and a resident of Imli Pura, was known to the victim’s family and frequently visited her parental home. Police said this familiarity enabled him to gain the family’s trust and access to the house.

The woman told investigators that the assaults occurred between December and January, during a period when her engagement had already taken place. She alleged that on three separate occasions, when other family members were not present, the accused raped her inside her home.

In her statement, the victim said she did not report the incidents at the time because the accused threatened to kill her if she spoke to anyone. The threats, coupled with his proximity to the family, kept her silent, police said. After her marriage last month, she informed her husband about the assaults. He then accompanied her to the police station to file a complaint.

Confirming the development, Moghat Road police station in-charge Dhiresh Dharwal said a case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to rape and criminal intimidation. “The victim stated that the incidents took place over a span of weeks before her marriage. Based on her complaint and preliminary verification, the accused has been arrested,” Dharwal said.

Police added that the victim’s statement has been recorded and further investigation is underway to establish the sequence of events and collect corroborative evidence. Medical and forensic procedures are being completed in accordance with protocol, officials said.

The arrest follows standard procedures, and the accused will be produced before the court for further legal proceedings. Police said they are also examining whether any prior complaints or related information existed and are counselling the victim as part of the investigation process.

Authorities reiterated that survivors of sexual violence can approach the police at any time and that delays in reporting do not preclude investigation. The case remains under active probe.