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Rakesh Rathore arrested: Congress MP's press briefing interrupted by UP Police over serious rape charges

UP News: Congress MP Rakesh Rathore was arrested on rape charges during a press conference in Sitapur after evading law enforcement for two weeks.

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Edited By: Mahi Mishra
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Congress MP Rakesh Rathore Arrested for Rape During Press Briefing in Sitapur (X/ @JhaRahul_Bihar)

 

UP News: In a significant development, Congress MP Rakesh Rathore was arrested on Thursday in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, following serious allegations of rape. The arrest comes after a two-week manhunt, with police confirming the apprehension during a press briefing.

Background of the Allegations

Rathore is accused of raping a 45-year-old woman under the pretense of marriage and promising to advance her political career over the last four years. The FIR was lodged against him on January 17, under various sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), including Section 64 for rape and Section 351(3) for criminal intimidation. The complaint also includes threats involving a firearm.

Legal Proceedings and Attempts to Evade Arrest

Since the FIR was filed, Rathore has been evading arrest while seeking anticipatory bail. However, his petition was denied by a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday, which mandated that he surrender to the Sitapur district and sessions court within two weeks.

Arrest During Press Conference

The police finally apprehended Rathore at his residence while he was addressing a press conference to defend himself against the allegations. Sitapur Superintendent of Police Chakresh Mishra stated that Rathore has been taken to the City Kotwali police station for further legal action.

Ongoing Investigations and Public Reaction

The police had been actively searching for Rathore at various locations, including Lucknow, and had previously issued notices at his home requesting his presence to clarify the allegations. Despite these efforts, he continued to avoid law enforcement until his recent arrest.In light of these serious accusations, Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Ajay Rai has called for a judicial inquiry into the matter.

Next Steps in Legal Proceedings

Rathore's legal team had previously sought relief from the court, arguing that the case was filed after an unreasonable delay of four years. However, the prosecution countered this claim, asserting that immediate relief should not be granted in such a serious case. The court ultimately instructed Rathore to surrender as planned.This incident has sparked widespread media attention and public discourse regarding accountability among public officials.

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