Unnao-rape: CBI denies confirming charges against MLA, probe still underway
The CBI has denied media reports claiming the agency had confirmed rape charges against Unnao BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, who was accused of raping a woman in 2017. Reports circulated in the morning also said CBI had confirmed police's interference in the case to save Sengar. Investigation is still continuing and it hasn't given any updates recently, CBI said.
Case grabbed headlines in April after a suicide attempt
The case made headlines last month when the victim and her family tried to kill themselves outside CM Yogi Adityanath's house. She alleged she had reported the crime several times, but no action was taken against Sengar. It turned murkier when police instead arrested her father for the 'illegal' suicide attempt, but he was found dead in custody next day. Sengar's brother was arrested.
Who were trying to protect Sengar?
Preliminary CBI investigations had revealed that several high-profile politicians, bureaucrats and cops were involved in shielding Sengar. So much so that police ignored even the CMO's instructions to take action. Sengar's aides also visited Makhi village recently and threatened people not to speak up against the MLA. The CBI is likely to summon these leaders too.
Victim's statement to be submitted as evidence
The case had been handed over to the CBI after a hue and cry about political pressure on the police; UP Police had acted only recently, after the DSP, local SHO and four constables were suspended. The agency arrested Sengar, Singh and others in April and questioned them at length. The CBI has also recorded the victim's statement, which is admissible as evidence.
