Nagpur Violence: CM Fadnavis Denies Molestation Claims During March 17 Riots
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Nagpur, India: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has denied reports that a woman police constable was molested during the riots in East Nagpur on March 17. His statement has stirred controversy, as it goes against the details mentioned in an FIR filed at Ganeshpeth police station.
At a press conference on March 22 at Police Bhavan, CM Fadnavis said, “The women cops were surrounded and pelted with stones by the accused. No incident of molestation was reported.” However, the FIR tells a different story. It claims that a female constable was physically assaulted by rioters at Bhaldarpura Square during the chaos.
According to the FIR, the mob not only attacked police personnel but also harassed the female constable. Some rioters allegedly touched her inappropriately and tried to pull her uniform. Other female officers also reported being verbally abused, physically attacked, and subjected to obscene gestures.
The riots, reportedly triggered by local miscreants, led to injuries for 33 police personnel, including three senior officers. The mob damaged vehicles, threw petrol bombs, and attacked houses in the area. The situation worsened, forcing authorities to call in additional security to restore order.
Legal experts note that filing a false FIR can lead to penalties under Section 240 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. This raises serious questions—if CM Fadnavis denies the molestation claims, could the woman constable face legal action? Or is this an attempt to avoid political embarrassment?
The conflicting accounts have caused concern among police personnel, especially female officers who feel vulnerable. Political observers are now questioning whether the government is more focused on protecting its image than ensuring the safety of its officers.
This incident highlights the need for stronger protection and support for police personnel, particularly women, who face immense risks during such violent situations.
