Nagpur Police to Recover Year-Long CCTV Footage in NGO Sexual Harassment Case
In a significant development in the sexual harassment and religious coercion case involving NGO president Riyaz Fazil Qazi, Nagpur police announced on Wednesday that they will recover and examine CCTV footage spanning an entire year from the organization's premises. This footage, dating from July 2025 onwards, will be crucial in corroborating serious allegations against Qazi and his sister organizations, which claim to provide education to underprivileged children.
Allegations and Arrest Details
Riyaz Fazil Qazi, 48, was arrested late Saturday and remains in police custody until April 23. The case involves at least four women employees, including a 23-year-old HR and administration head, who have accused Qazi of summoning them to his cabin, switching off CCTV cameras, and making unwanted physical advances. The complainants have further alleged that Qazi coerced female staff to adopt Islamic practices such as offering namaz and observing roza, threatening them with adverse consequences if they refused.
One survivor and her sister informed police that they resigned due to the hostile work environment. They also accused Qazi of operating a fake Instagram account to stalk and defame women employees, adding another layer to the investigation.
Police Investigation Strategy
Senior police officials stated that retrieving the year-long CCTV footage aims to establish a clear behavioral pattern of the accused. "Besides call records, digital evidence, and witness statements collected during the office raid, the one-year footage will be crucial in collating evidence," a senior officer told TOI. This comprehensive approach is designed to build a strong case against Qazi.
Investigators are facing challenges in counselling the survivors, as many women are traumatized and hesitant to speak in detail. To address this, police have deployed women officers to build confidence and assure protection and confidentiality, emphasizing a sensitive handling of the case.
Background of the NGO and Broader Investigation
The NGO in question has been functioning for nearly 16 years, claiming to work for underprivileged children. During the raid, police seized laptops, mobile phones, and other devices. They are now contacting former employees who left the organization over the years to gather additional testimonies and insights.
In a notable escalation, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad is assisting in examining the funding sources and activities of the NGO, indicating the seriousness with which authorities are treating the allegations. This multi-agency effort underscores the complexity of the case and the need for thorough scrutiny.
The recovery of extensive CCTV footage marks a pivotal step in the investigation, as police work to uncover the truth behind the disturbing allegations of sexual harassment and religious coercion in Nagpur.
