Amravati Youth Arrested for Filming Sexual Abuse of Minor Girls and Blackmail
A 19-year-old man in Amravati district was arrested on Tuesday and remanded in police custody until April 21 for allegedly filming his sexual abuse of minor girls and blackmailing them with threats to make the videos viral. The scandal has rocked the adjoining towns of Paratwada and Achalpur, located approximately 180 kilometers from Nagpur, with around 100 obscene videos circulating online showing minor girls reportedly under duress.
Details of the Alleged Crimes and Investigation
The accused, identified as Ayan Ahmed Tanveer Ahmed, is alleged to have lured girls into relationships through social media, then physically and sexually assaulted them while recording the acts against their will. Police sources indicate that the accused is visible in some of the videos, and they suspect another accomplice may have assisted in filming the sexual exploitation.
The case came to light on Monday when Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Anil Bonde and BJP state spokesperson Shivrai Kulkarni lodged a formal complaint with Amravati Rural Superintendent of Police Vishal Anand. They alleged that the accused had enticed several girls via social media and subjected them to sexual assault, warning of strong agitation if police failed to take immediate action.
Police Response and Victim Support
With the accused now in custody, authorities are examining his phone for further evidence, while the cyber cell has initiated efforts to remove the videos from social media platforms. SP Vishal Anand stated, "Police are monitoring posts of those who downloaded videos and are recirculating it." He added that no victim or family member has filed a formal complaint so far, likely due to fears of social stigma.
In response, SP Anand appealed to victims' families to come forward, assuring them of confidentiality and that the state would provide legal and counseling services. Amravati guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule confirmed that even Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken note of the case, emphasizing its seriousness.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Minister Bawankule remarked, "I have spoken with the DGP, since this is a big issue. There are many dimensions to this case, which cannot be mentioned in the media today. We will investigate and take action against the accused." The investigation is ongoing, with police focusing on identifying any additional perpetrators and supporting the affected minors through this traumatic ordeal.
