A 36-year-old woman in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district has alleged that she was attacked with acid by two unidentified youths while returning home late Friday night after purchasing medicine. The incident, reported from the Cantt police station area, left the woman with burn injuries and has triggered a police investigation. While the victim has claimed that an acid-like substance was thrown at her near Kajliwan Ground, police officials say they are examining all possible angles, as certain aspects of the case have raised questions during the initial inquiry. The woman was first taken to the district hospital and later referred to Bundelkhand Medical College for specialized treatment. Authorities have begun collecting evidence and reviewing available footage from nearby locations to determine the exact sequence of events. The case has drawn local attention, with residents demanding swift action and clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack.

According to police and hospital sources, the victim, identified as Archana Ahirwar, a resident of Vitthal Nagar, told investigators that she was returning home after buying medicine when two young men approached her near Kajliwan Ground.

She alleged that the suspects suddenly threw a corrosive substance at her and fled the scene before she could identify them. Local residents reportedly rushed to help after hearing her cries and informed her family members.

Investigation Underway

The injured woman was initially admitted to the district hospital, where doctors provided first aid. Due to the nature of the burn injuries, she was later referred to Bundelkhand Medical College for further treatment.

Police officials confirmed that burn marks were found on the woman's back. However, investigators have not yet conclusively established whether the substance used was acid or another flammable chemical.

CCTV Search Begins

Cantt Police Station officials reached the scene shortly after receiving information about the incident. According to Station House Officer Rohit Dongare, there are no CCTV cameras installed at the exact location where the alleged attack took place.

Investigators are therefore scanning footage from nearby roads, intersections, shops, and residential areas to identify possible suspects and verify the victim's account.

The officer said that the woman informed police she had been attacked with a flammable substance. During questioning, she also named certain individuals whom she suspects may be linked to the incident. Authorities are examining those claims as part of the ongoing investigation.

Questions Remain

Police officials stated that no clear motive has emerged so far. Investigators are working to determine whether the attack was targeted, personal, or linked to any previous dispute.

Officials emphasized that all evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings will be carefully reviewed before drawing conclusions. The exact nature of the substance involved will also be confirmed through scientific examination.

Long wait ends for residents

Residents of Rewa have finally received some good news after months of waiting. The municipal corporation reopened the Mihir Sen swimming pool for the general public on Saturday, 8 June. The facility, which remains shut for nearly two years for major repairs, is now available for both regular swimmers and occasional visitors.

Locals turned up in small numbers on the first morning, with many expressing relief that the pool is functional again before the summer peaks.

Two payment options for users

The corporation has introduced a flexible fee structure to accommodate different types of users. Those who wish to swim regularly can opt for a monthly membership of ₹2,500. For residents who plan to use the pool only once in a while, an hourly rate of ₹100 has been fixed.

Officials said the idea is to ensure the pool remains accessible without discouraging casual swimmers. “Not everyone can commit to a monthly plan. The hourly option is for college students and working professionals,” a municipal officer explained.

Three sessions, one reserved for women

The pool will operate in three different time slots through the day. The morning session from 6 AM to 10 AM is open for all. In a notable move, the corporation has reserved the evening slot between 5 PM and 6 PM exclusively for women, keeping safety and convenience in mind.

The final session from 6 PM to 8 PM is again open for all. To avoid overcrowding, authorities have capped entry at 30 swimmers per session.

Strict documentation, age rules in place

Registration is mandatory before anyone can enter the pool. Applicants need to produce either an Aadhaar card, voter ID, marksheet, or birth certificate at the time of registration. Children below 18 years must carry written consent from a parent or guardian.

Officials have also clarified that kids under five years will not be allowed inside the pool area at all. “This is purely a safety measure. Young children require separate facilities which we do not have here,” a corporation source said.

For children aged between 5 and 14 years, presence of a parent or guardian is compulsory throughout the swimming session.

Lifeguards deployed, diving pool remains shut

The corporation has deployed trained lifeguards and swimming instructors for every session. Swimmers who do not know how to swim will only be allowed in the shallow section. Additionally, anyone suffering from a contagious disease will be denied entry to prevent health risks for others.

Meanwhile, the diving pool adjacent to the main facility will remain closed until further orders. Officials cited safety concerns and said a decision on reopening it will be taken only after a thorough review of standards.

Private operator yet to be finalised

According to municipal authorities, the process to select a private agency for long-term operation and maintenance of the pool is still underway. But given persistent public demand, the corporation has decided to run the facility on its own for now.

"We did not want to delay the reopening any further. The tender process takes time, but citizens needed access immediately,” a senior official said.

Residents have been asked to follow all posted rules and cooperate with security staff during their visit.

Chhattisgarh BJP Leader Alleges Rape, Blackmail by Ranchi Businessman in Delhi

Accused Sanjay Singh Arrested After 2.5 Crore Cheating Claim

A woman leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur has accused a Ranchi-based businessman of raping her in Delhi and later blackmailing her after she invested over ₹2.5 crore in a promised mining venture.

The accused, identified as Sanjay Singh, was arrested by Bilaspur police from Ranchi on Friday. Police registered the case at Civil Lines police station following the complainant’s statement.

Business Meeting Turns Personal

According to the complaint, the BJP leader, who frequently travels between Bilaspur and Delhi, first met Sanjay Singh around two years ago. Singh reportedly introduced himself as a prominent businessman with interests in mining. He allegedly convinced her to invest in coal mining projects, promising high returns and a formal partnership.

Over time, their professional interaction grew closer. The woman claims Singh exploited this trust. In September 2025, he allegedly raped her in Delhi. Following the incident, he reportedly began blackmailing her, demanding more money and threatening to make the matter public.

Massive Investment, Alleged Fraud

The complainant has alleged that Singh took approximately ₹2.5 crore from her in multiple instalments through RTGS and other banking channels. She was told the money would be invested in mining operations. When she later demanded its return, Singh allegedly turned hostile and started extortion, the FIR states.

Bilaspur police said they are examining mobile call records, chat logs, transaction details, and other documents to verify the claims. A team had travelled to Jharkhand as part of the investigation before making the arrest.

Accused Denies Allegations

After his arrest, a video of Sanjay Singh went viral in which he strongly denied the rape and blackmail charges. He claimed the police had raided his residence on May 21 and informed him about the case. Singh alleged that the BJP leader had actually cheated him of ₹80 lakh in a coal mine-related deal and described the accusations against him as false.

Authorities have not yet commented officially on the contents of the video. Legal experts noted that such counter-claims are common in financial dispute cases involving serious allegations and will be examined during the investigation.

Political and Social Reactions

The case has sparked discussion in Bilaspur’s political circles, given the complainant’s affiliation with the BJP. However, senior party leaders in Chhattisgarh have so far maintained silence, stating that the matter is under police investigation.

Women’s rights activists in the region have called for a thorough and time-bound probe, emphasising the need for sensitivity in handling cases involving influential individuals. The incident has also triggered conversations about safety concerns for women professionals and politicians who travel frequently for work.

Police Investigation Underway

Senior police officers confirmed that the case involves charges of rape, criminal breach of trust, cheating, and blackmail under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. Further interrogation of the accused is in progress.

The woman is said to be receiving counselling support. Police have assured that her identity will be protected as per legal provisions in sexual offence cases.

Background of Similar Cases

This case comes months after another high-profile verdict in Chhattisgarh where an agriculture extension officer from Balod district was sentenced to life imprisonment in a separate rape case involving a colleague. Such incidents continue to highlight challenges around financial fraud intertwined with sexual exploitation in professional networks.

Bilaspur police said they are working to complete the investigation at the earliest and will file a charge sheet after collecting all necessary evidence, including forensic reports.

The developments are being closely watched as the case involves inter-state elements between Chhattisgarh, Delhi, and Jharkhand.

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.

A tribal woman was allegedly gang-raped in Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh, following which police arrested two accused involved in the crime. Officials said the incident took place in the Chilfi police station area, where the victim was allegedly assaulted by two men known to her after returning from a social function late at night.

According to police officials, the woman had attended a ‘Chhathi’ programme at a relative’s house on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. While she was returning home, the accused, who were reportedly known to her, allegedly offered her alcohol during the gathering. Investigators said the accused later took the woman towards a forested area located between Ranidahara and Saroda Dadar, where they allegedly raped her one after another before fleeing from the spot.

Police sources stated that the victim was left unconscious after the incident. Despite her condition, she managed to reach the police station and lodged a complaint regarding the assault. Following the complaint, teams from Chilfi police station and the women police unit initiated immediate action and shifted the victim for medical examination and treatment at a nearby health facility.

Officials confirmed that the medical examination supported allegations of sexual assault. Based on the victim’s statement and preliminary evidence collected during the investigation, police registered a case and launched a search operation to identify the accused.

Investigators said the accused were traced using descriptions provided by the victim and statements from local witnesses. Police later detained two suspects and took them into custody for questioning. During interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted to their involvement in the crime. Authorities said further legal action is being taken under relevant sections related to gang rape and sexual assault.

Police officials stated that forensic and additional evidence collection is underway as part of the investigation. Authorities are also examining whether the accused had planned the assault in advance or acted opportunistically after the social programme. Officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the accused considering the sensitivity of the matter and legal provisions related to sexual offence cases.

The incident has triggered concern in the region over women’s safety, particularly in rural and tribal areas where access to immediate assistance and transport facilities often remains limited during late-night hours. Local residents have demanded strict punishment for the accused and enhanced security measures in isolated routes connecting villages.

Police officials assured that the case is being treated seriously and that all procedural steps are being followed to ensure a fair and speedy investigation. Senior officers are reportedly monitoring the case closely. Authorities also appealed to citizens to immediately report crimes against women and cooperate with investigations to help ensure swift action.

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Raigarh Man Arrested for Alleged Rape After Backing Out of Marriage Promise

A 27-year-old youth from Raigarh was sent to judicial custody for allegedly raping a woman for two years under the pretext of marriage in Delhi.

 In a significant crackdown on crimes against women, the Raigarh police have arrested a man for allegedly duping a woman into a long-term live-in relationship under the false promise of marriage. The accused, identified as 27-year-old Akbar Ali, reportedly abandoned the victim in Delhi earlier this year after cohabiting with her for nearly two years.

The matter came to light on Friday when the victim, a resident of Bilaspur, approached the local Women's Police Station (Mahila Thana) to file a formal complaint. Following the report, the police acted swiftly to apprehend Ali from the Bajinpali Fatahmuda area under the Jute Mill police station limits.

Relationship started over phone

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the victim and the accused first came into contact via mobile phone back in 2017. Over the years, their acquaintance grew into a relationship. The victim alleged that Ali consistently assured her of marriage, gaining her trust over several years of conversation.

Forced stay in Delhi

The timeline of the assault traces back to August 2022, when the accused allegedly summoned the woman to Raigarh. Sources familiar with the matter said the first instance of physical assault took place at a friend’s residence in the city. Subsequently, in 2023, Ali persuaded the woman to move to Delhi with him.

The couple lived in a rented accommodation in the national capital for approximately two years. The victim stated that during this period, she was repeatedly subjected to sexual exploitation as the accused continued to use the promise of a future wedding as a tool for coercion.

Abandonment and legal action

The situation took a drastic turn in February 2026 when Ali abruptly refused to marry the woman. Leaving her alone in Delhi, he returned to his hometown in Chhattisgarh. Despite the victim’s repeated attempts to contact him and resolve the matter, Ali reportedly remained evasive and eventually issued a final refusal, prompting her to seek legal recourse in Raigarh.

Invoking the Atrocities Act

Taking note of the victim's background, the Raigarh police have tightened the legal noose around the accused. Besides charges of rape under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, authorities have added Section 3(2)(v) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to the case.

"The accused was produced before a local court and has been sent on judicial remand to jail," a police official confirmed late Friday evening.

Message from the SSP

Raigarh Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shashi Mohan Singh emphasized that the department maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding crimes against women. Speaking on the arrest, the SSP urged women to come forward without fear. "Safety and dignity of women are our top priorities. We will ensure sensitive and strict action against anyone found playing with the honor of women," Singh stated.

The local administration is currently looking into whether there are any prior complaints against the accused as the investigation continues.

Vijay Sworn in as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in Simple Attire

Actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay took oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, marking a striking shift in the state's political landscape. The Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief chose a modern, understated look and delivered an unconventional oath-taking moment that quickly became the talk of the day at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The ceremony drew thousands of supporters, turning the venue into a sea of enthusiasm rarely seen during routine swearing-ins. Vijay, known for his massive fan following, opted for a white shirt and black pants instead of the traditional veshti and shirt that leaders like M.G. Ramachandran and M. Karunanidhi favoured in the past. His choice was widely interpreted as a deliberate signal to connect with younger voters and project a fresh image.

Modern Look Sparks Discussion

Vijay’s decision to skip conventional Tamil political attire stood out immediately. Past Chief Ministers often appeared in white dhoti, shirts, and symbolic accessories like caps or shawls. Political observers noted that the actor’s crisp, formal outfit aligned with his long-standing appeal among urban and youth demographics. The move is being seen as part of his broader effort to reshape political symbolism in the state.

Governor Interrupts During Oath

In a departure from protocol, Vijay began speaking beyond the prescribed text after saying “I, Joseph Vijay...” The Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, politely intervened and asked him to stick to the written oath. Vijay then completed the formal recitation, which included commitments to the Constitution, upholding India’s unity and integrity, performing duties according to his conscience, and ensuring justice for all without fear or favour.

The brief exchange added an element of spontaneity to the otherwise solemn proceedings. Officials later clarified that the Governor had guided the process both before and after the moment.

Emotional Moment for Vijay’s Parents

One of the most touching scenes was Vijay’s parents listening to the oath with folded hands. Veteran filmmaker S.A. Chandrashekhar and noted singer-writer Shobha Chandrasekhar appeared visibly moved as their son assumed the state’s top post. The family moment resonated widely among those present and viewers following the live coverage.

Historic Stadium Ceremony and Applause

For the first time in Tamil Nadu’s history, the oath-taking was held inside a stadium rather than an open ground. Vijay’s long association with the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium — from film launches to fan club meetings — influenced the choice of venue. As soon as he uttered “I am C. Joseph Vijay,” the crowd erupted in prolonged applause lasting nearly three minutes, forcing a brief pause before he could continue.

Rahul Gandhi’s Presence and Selfie

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was the only prominent national leader on stage. In an informal moment, Vijay took a selfie with him. Sources recalled that Vijay had explored joining the Congress around 2009 and had met Rahul, who was then the party’s general secretary. Though those plans did not materialise, the cordial presence on Sunday underscored lingering political warmth.

Immediate Governance Actions

Within an hour of taking charge, the new Chief Minister issued key orders. He cleared a file providing 200 units of free electricity to domestic consumers — a move expected to bring relief to middle-class and lower-income households. Vijay also sanctioned the creation of a special force dedicated to women’s safety, signalling early focus on public security and welfare.

Public Reactions and Expectations

Crowds outside the stadium and across Chennai expressed both excitement and high expectations. Many supporters, especially from Vijay’s fan base turned political cadre, saw the swearing-in as the beginning of a new chapter. Critics, however, wondered how the former actor would translate star power into effective administration amid the state’s complex challenges.

Political analysts pointed out that Vijay’s rise reflects changing voter preferences, particularly among younger and aspirational sections seeking alternatives to traditional Dravidian party dominance. His emphasis on simplicity, direct communication, and swift decisions in the first hours has already set a distinct tone.

The coming weeks will test the new government’s ability to deliver on promises while managing coalition realities and administrative transitions. For now, the stadium ceremony and its memorable moments have given Tamil Nadu politics a fresh, cinematic flavour.

A 26-year-old woman in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district has accused a man of repeatedly sexually assaulting her on the pretext of marriage, leading to his arrest in the latest Raigarh rape case reported from the region. Police said the accused allegedly established physical relations with the woman for nearly one-and-a-half years after promising to marry her, but later refused when she became pregnant.

The case was registered at Tamnar police station after the survivor approached police earlier this week and detailed the allegations against the accused, identified as Prithviraj Chauhan, a resident of Saraidipa village in Raigarh district.

Relationship Turned Criminal

According to officials, the woman told police that she came in contact with Chauhan around two-and-a-half years ago. The two gradually developed a personal relationship, which later turned into an intimate one.

During the course of their relationship, the accused allegedly assured the woman that he would marry her and, on that basis, initiated physical relations with her. The woman alleged that Chauhan continued to sexually exploit her for nearly 18 months while repeatedly reinforcing the promise of marriage.

Police said the survivor stated in her complaint that she consented to the relationship because she believed the accused intended to marry her.

Pregnancy Triggered Dispute

The matter escalated when the woman informed Chauhan that she had become pregnant and asked him to formalise the relationship through marriage. According to the complaint, the accused initially avoided the conversation and continued to delay any decision.

As per police records, Chauhan later refused to marry her altogether. The woman then informed her family about the incident and approached police on their advice.

Investigators said the complaint was registered after preliminary verification, following which a case was filed under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to rape and deception.

Police Action Taken

Tamnar police moved swiftly after the complaint was filed and conducted a raid at the accused’s residence. Chauhan was taken into custody and formally arrested.

Police produced the accused before a local court, which remanded him to judicial custody. He has since been sent to jail, officials said.

Investigators indicated that further inquiry is underway and statements of those connected to the case are being recorded as part of the ongoing probe.

Officials Issue Warning

Raigarh Senior Superintendent of Police Shashi Mohan Singh said crimes involving women would be dealt with firmly and without delay. According to officials, the district police have been instructed to ensure swift and sensitive handling of such complaints.

He said offences involving sexual exploitation and false promises of marriage are treated as serious crimes and strict legal action would follow in every such case supported by evidence.

Officials also urged women facing similar abuse to report such incidents without hesitation.

Legal And Social Impact

The Raigarh rape case has again drawn attention to cases involving alleged sexual exploitation under the promise of marriage, an issue that continues to surface in crime reports across states. Legal experts have repeatedly underlined that consent obtained through deception can attract criminal liability if investigators establish fraudulent intent from the outset.

Such cases also raise concerns around delayed reporting, social stigma and the pressure survivors face before approaching law enforcement. Police officials said timely reporting remains critical for evidence collection and prosecution.

Investigation Continues

Police said the investigation remains active and further legal action will depend on medical evidence, witness statements and case documentation. Authorities are expected to file a detailed case diary before the court in the coming days.

Sakti SI Faces Rape, Blackmail Charges

Woman Levels Serious Allegations

A married woman from Sakti, Chhattisgarh, accuses Sub-Inspector Kamal Merisha of rape, capturing nude videos, forcing an abortion, and ongoing blackmail. The duo connected via Facebook three years ago when Merisha served in Dantewada. Their interactions intensified after his posting in Sakti.

Facebook Friendship Turns Sour

Merisha posed as unmarried and promised to adopt her daughter, sources indicated. Physical relations followed during her husband's absence. The woman, mother to a young girl abandoned by her spouse, shared sonography videos confirming pregnancy in January 2024.

Sakti police station handles the complaint, yet faces inaction claims.

Forced Abortion Revealed

Merisha allegedly gave abortion pills without consent, leading to miscarriage. Relations continued post-incident. His wife's call later exposed his marriage and child, shattering trust.

Suicide Bid Follows Shock

Distraught, the woman consumed pesticide in a suicide attempt. Merisha rushed her to MalkhRaoda health centre for treatment. He then blocked her number, prompting her January 29, 2026, complaint at Sakti thana.

Complaints Ignored Alleges Victim

SDOP Sakti took initial probe, but the woman claims four visits to SP and IG offices yielded no action. She shared call logs and videos demanding justice. Police sources confirm ongoing review.

Threat at SDOP Office

On March 28, 2026, Merisha reportedly showed objectionable material outside SDOP office, threatening virality and false cases. Pressured, she withdrew the complaint temporarily. Harassment persisted.

SI Denies All Charges

Merisha calls accusations false, per reports. Dainik Bhaskar tried contacting Additional SP Pankaj Patel, but received no response. No formal arrest or suspension yet.

Broader Women Safety Concerns

Case spotlights police accountability in Chhattisgarh, amid rising complaints against officers. Victims hesitate due to threats. Public demands swift probe.

Ambikapur Horror: Woman’s Head Crushed, Plastic Bottle Found in Private Parts

Rape And Murder Suspected

A woman’s body with a crushed skull and a plastic bottle inserted in her private parts was found near the Mahamaya entrance on Ring Road here early Friday morning. Police have registered a murder case and suspect sexual assault before the killing, as per officials.

Body Found at Meat Shop

The blood-soaked body of a middle-aged woman was discovered inside a roadside meat shop around dawn. Senior Superintendent of Police Rajesh Agrawal and Additional SP Amolak Singh reached the spot along with forensic and dog squad teams. Officials said the throat was slit with a sharp weapon, and the face was deliberately smashed to hide identity.

Plastic Bottle Recovered

During the initial examination, investigators found a plastic bottle lodged in the woman’s private parts. “Prima facie, this appears to be a murder case. But the presence of the bottle points to a possible sexual assault,” a police source told this English news portal India. The forensic team collected blood samples and other evidence from the crime scene.

CCTV Footage Being Analysed

Police are now scanning multiple CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity. Local councillor Satish Bari said footage from one camera showed the woman walking with a man late Thursday night. “Another camera near the crime spot is also being examined. The accused will be arrested soon,” Bari added.

No Identification Yet

Authorities have not yet identified the victim. No missing person complaint matching her description has been filed in Ambikapur or surrounding areas. The body has been sent to the district hospital for post-mortem. Police have also questioned local residents and shopkeepers for any leads.

Public Outrage Grows

The brutal nature of the crime has sparked anger among residents of the Ring Road locality. Women’s rights groups have demanded fast-track court proceedings once the accused is caught. “Such savagery cannot be tolerated. We want immediate arrest and strict punishment,” said a local activist.

What Next for Investigation

Additional SP Amolak Singh said teams have been formed to nab the suspect within days. “We are working on multiple angles, including whether the victim was a sex worker or a homeless woman. The CCTV analysis is key,” he stated. Police have also alerted checkpoints across Sarguja district to track any suspicious movement.

According to officials, a dog squad traced a trail from the crime scene for nearly 200 metres before losing the scent on the main road. The police have appealed to citizens to report any information about missing women or unusual activity in the area. A reward for information leading to the arrest is being considered.

Raipur Civic Body’s ₹1600 Crore Budget Proposes New Event Tax, Cleanliness Fee for Community Feasts

The budget, set to be presented on March 30, introduces user charges for public events and community kitchens while keeping existing taxes unchanged, with a focus on resolving long-pending civic issues.

The Raipur Municipal Corporation (RMC) is set to table a ₹1,600 crore budget for the fiscal year on March 30, introducing a new levy that will require organisers to pay for holding public events and community feasts. For the first time, the civic body has proposed a user charge for exhibitions, expos, magic shows, and fairs, regardless of whether they are held on private or government land, aiming to offset sanitation and waste management costs.

New Tax on Events

Under the proposed financial plan, organisers will be required to pay a daily fee of ₹500 for every 10,000 square feet of area used for events. This charge will apply to a wide range of gatherings, including commercial exhibitions and community fairs. Officials have clarified that this is not a revenue-generation measure but a user fee intended to cover the cost of cleaning and waste disposal associated with such large gatherings.

Cleanliness Fee Rationale

The budget also introduces a mandatory sanitation fee for community feasts, known locally as bhandaras, and langars. Organisers of these community kitchens will have to pay a daily ₹500 fee. Municipal officials stated that during festivals and religious processions, a significant amount of waste is generated at roadside community kitchens. The advance payment is designed to ensure better waste management and proper cleanliness after the events conclude.

Focus on Women’s Safety

Sources indicate that this year’s budget places a strong emphasis on women’s safety and convenience. The civic body is expected to launch new digital initiatives aimed at empowering women, with substantial funding allocations set aside for these projects. Additionally, a proposal for free travel for women in city buses is under consideration, a move aimed at improving mobility and accessibility for female residents.

Solving the Waterlogging Crisis

Moving beyond cosmetic projects, a significant portion of the budget has been allocated to tackle chronic civic problems. A key priority is Professor Colony, a residential area that faces severe waterlogging every monsoon. The persistent flooding leaves dozens of homes submerged, making it difficult for residents to enter their properties. A comprehensive plan with dedicated funding has been proposed to permanently resolve this issue.

Mayor’s Second Budget

This marks Mayor Meenal Choubey’s second budget presentation, following a ₹1,529 crore budget last year. Unlike the previous fiscal plan, which focused heavily on beautification, road infrastructure, and traffic improvements, this year’s blueprint prioritises basic services like electricity, water supply, and road repairs. Mayor Choubey emphasised a practical approach, stating that the focus is on solving real problems rather than making hollow announcements.

What Next for the City

The budget will be presented alongside 17 key agenda items in the municipal council meeting. These include proposals to name a square after martyr ASP Akash Rao Girepunje and rename a road after freedom fighter Ayodhya Prasad. The rehabilitation of shopkeepers from the Kiran Building is also on the list. With a focus on fiscal prudence and resolving infrastructure bottlenecks, the new Raipur civic budget aims to balance event regulation with urban development.

Victim's cop father fights for FIR hours after 2017 attack in Habibganj; case exposes policing lapses in busy urban hub.

Shocking Attack Unfolds

A UPSC aspirant suffered a gang rape near Habibganj railway station—now Rani Kamlapati—on October 31, 2017, just 50 meters from an RPF police station. The 18-year-old victim, returning from coaching, took a shortcut through a dark railway stretch. Four men attacked her around 7 PM amid crowded evening rush, sources indicated.

She reached the RPF station by 10:30 PM in torn clothes, trembling. Officers called her father, an Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Railway Protection Force. Her mother, waiting at Vidisha station, grew anxious as her phone stayed off since 7 PM.

Victim's Desperate Dash

The survivor bolted to the station after the assault, stunning duty officers. She could barely speak, clutching her phone. Her father rushed over, finding his daughter in shock.

He took her home. There, she revealed the gang rape by four unidentified men. The family treated her injuries before pushing for action. As per reports, the crime site lay steps from the main road, yet went unseen.

Daily Commute Turns Deadly

The victim commuted from Vidisha to Bhopal's MP Nagar for UPSC coaching. Her father, posted in Bhopal with quarters, let her travel daily. That evening, she chose the 5-10 minute shortcut over the 30-minute main route.

Fifty steps in, assailants dragged her into isolation. The busy Habibganj area buzzed with activity, but her cries drowned in the noise. Latest news today from Bhopal underscores urban safety gaps.

Father's Ordeal at Station

Next morning, the cop father took her to MP Nagar police station. Officers inspected the scene but cited jurisdiction issues, redirecting them. The victim spotted one accused nearby, police noted.

At Habibganj station, staff balked again. Nearly 18 hours passed without an FIR. The father persisted, securing a zero FIR before GRP took over.

Jurisdiction Battles Delay Justice

Persistent shuttling between stations marked the ordeal. Officials argued over areas—RPF, GRP, or local police. Sources indicated poor coordination stalled the process despite the victim's cop father.

No immediate arrests followed. The case highlighted systemic hurdles in grave crimes.

Unanswered Questions Linger

Who were the four accused? How did the attack happen undetected near a station? Why no witnesses in peak hours? FIR delays despite a uniformed parent's pleas raise red flags.

India news update reveals recurring policing lapses in high-traffic zones.

Broader Safety Concerns

The incident shook Bhopal, spotlighting risks for women in coaching hubs. It exposed urban blind spots—shortcuts near stations turning perilous. Public outrage grew over police response.

English news portal India reports stress better lighting and patrols.

Path to Accountability

Investigations continue years later, with calls for better inter-agency ties. Government updates push women safety drives, but gaps persist. This public interest story demands swift reforms.

Trending news India watches for justice in such cases.