In a significant crackdown, the Bharuch district administration on Thursday demolished multiple allegedly illegal properties linked to a 53-year-old maulvi, who is currently facing serious charges including rape and attempted forcible religious conversion. The action, undertaken with a substantial police presence, targeted constructions in Ravidra and Karmali villages belonging to Ajvad Bemat.
Charges and Police Action
Ajvad Bemat, who serves as the principal of the Madni Darut Tarbiyat Madrasa in Karmali village, was initially booked by Panoli police on November 11. The case was filed based on a complaint by a Surat-based model, who also works with an NGO. She alleged that Bemat, after meeting her through a common acquaintance for work-related purposes, spiked her drink and raped her while she was unconscious. The complainant further accused him of trying to coerce her into changing her religion.
Police have invoked multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against Bemat: Section 64 (rape), 123 (causing hurt by poison), 351 (criminal intimidation), and 69 (sexual intercourse by deceit). Additionally, he has been charged under Section 4 of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Act for the attempted forcible conversion.
Demolition of Illegal Constructions
Following his arrest, the investigation took a new turn. Bharuch Superintendent of Police Akshayraj Makwana stated that during the probe, authorities uncovered that Bemat had illegally built homes and shops in Ravidra village of Ankleshwar taluka. He was also found to have carried out extensive unauthorized construction at his madrasa in Karmali village, allegedly using the funds generated from these activities.
The police reported these illegal constructions to the relevant gram panchayats and taluka panchayats, which subsequently issued notices to Bemat. Upon confirmation of the illegal nature of the structures, the administration proceeded with the demolition. The operation was conducted under heavy police bandobust (security arrangement) and in the presence of an executive magistrate.
Criminal History and International Links
The investigation has revealed further concerning details about the accused. Police discovered that Ajvad Bemat holds Canadian citizenship and has traveled to numerous countries. He also has a prior criminal history, which led authorities to seize his passport in an earlier case.
The victim's statement outlined a pattern of grooming, where Bemat, after exchanging contact details, began messaging and calling her frequently. He reportedly offered to resolve her marital disputes through religious rites, which later set the stage for the alleged crime.
This case highlights a stringent approach by Gujarat authorities, linking serious criminal allegations with subsequent action against illegally acquired or built assets, sending a strong message in the region.
