Nagpur, India: Vice Chairman of the State Scheduled Caste and Tribe Commission, Adv. Dharmapal Meshram, announced that authorities are mandated to prepare and file a charge sheet within one month against Shakeel Siddiqui (29), who has been arrested for the alleged rape and subsequent murder of a 17-year-old minor from Maneksha village in Gondia.

During a press conference held at Ravi Bhavan, Adv. Meshram detailed the shocking events surrounding the case. The brutal murder took place on February 9, 2025, but the incident only came to light on February 10. Following the revelation, officials met with the victim's family to gather further information.

According to reports, the minor, whose parents work as laborers at a local brick kiln, was subjected to ongoing sexual abuse by Siddiqui, resulting in her becoming eight months pregnant. As the possibility of marriage arose, Siddiqui allegedly attempted to strangle her to eliminate the situation. He then took her to a remote area where he covered her with a tarpaulin and set her on fire. However, the victim survived long enough to move away from the blaze, but Siddiqui returned the next day to complete the heinous act, ultimately leading to her death.

Adv. Meshram emphasized the need for timely justice in this case and has directed law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure that the accused faces stringent penalties for his actions. In addition, he highlighted the alarming prevalence of illegal brick kilns in the Gondia district, where child labor practices have been reported.

As part of the response to the incident, a joint team, comprising labor officials and child protection officers, will be formed to investigate these brick kilns further. The Pollution Control Board has also been instructed to submit a report on its investigations within the next 15 days.

The victim's family will receive essential government documentation to assist them in this distressing time, with an initial compensation payment of ₹4,12,000 to be disbursed within seven days.

Adv. Meshram voiced concerns over suspicious activities occurring at various OPDs and clinics in Gondia, indicating that an urgent meeting with senior health officials, including the health deputy director, will be convened to establish protocols for inspecting medical facilities.