Union Minister’s Daughter Harassed In Maharashtra, 1 Arrested

A junior minister in the Union cabinet has raised questions over women's safety in Maharashtra after her minor daughter was harassed at a fair in Jalgaon district. 

Raksha Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports and a BJP leader, went to the police station today to file a complaint, accompanied by dozens of party workers and supporters. She told reporters outside the police station, "A yatra is organized every year in Kothali on the occasion of Shivratri. My daughter went to this fair the day before yesterday and she was harassed by some boys. I have come to the police station to file a complaint." Visibly upset Khads added, "I have come as a mother seeking justice, not as a Union Minister and MP,"

Kushanat Pingde, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Muktainagar said that the accused misbehaved with several girls and even clashed with their bodyguards when they tried to intervene. He has named seven accused in the case, of whom one has been arrested. Denying any political pressure, he said a case has been lodged for molestation, and under the POCSO Act. Charges under the IT Act have also been added since the accused also clicked the girls' videos.

Khadse, a three-time MP from the Raver seat, said crimes against women have increased across Maharashtra and there is no fear of law. Many girls hesitate to come forward, but we must not stay silent, she said, adding that she would meet the Chief Minister and demand action on such incidents.

Addressing the situation, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the workers of a "particular party" were involved in the crime and that strictest action will be taken against them. "Unfortunately, the crime involved workers from a particular party. Cops have registered a case and arrested some people. The rest will be arrested soon. Those involved will not be spared. Strictest action will be taken against them," said Mr Fadnavis.