Madhya Pradesh: Tensions flare over viral obscene video of minor
What's the story
Tensions are running high in Shamgarh city, Madhya Pradesh, after an obscene video of a 16-year-old girl went viral. The victim, a Class 12 student, was allegedly blackmailed by two accused, identified as Rihan and Babu, who entered her house on November 6 when her family was away, NDTV reported. Rihan allegedly threatened the girl with a knife and forced her to record an obscene video on her mother's phone before transferring it to his device.
Arrest and unrest
Accused arrested, community protests intensify
Rihan allegedly demanded ₹5 lakh from the victim's family, threatening to release the video online. The family managed to arrange ₹2 lakh out of fear, which Rihan collected. However, after failing to extort the remaining amount, he allegedly shared the video on Thursday evening, which then went viral. After learning about this incident, hundreds of residents gathered at Shamgarh police station demanding immediate action against the accused.
Official action
Authorities respond to public outrage, arrest accused
The protests intensified on Friday as Hindu organizations joined in, bringing shops, traffic, and public movement to a standstill. In response to the public outrage, the Municipal Council started action against Rihan and Babu's houses by disconnecting water connections and measuring properties for potential demolition. The police have registered cases under relevant sections of extortion, intimidation, criminal force under BNS sections, along with the POCSO Act and the IT Act.
Ongoing investigation
Police investigation underway, community remains on edge
Despite the arrests, Shamgarh continues to remain tense as residents demand exemplary punishment. Shops remain shut in many areas, and the police presence has been significantly increased to prevent any further disturbance. "An obscene video of the girl was made, and money was demanded. When the money was not given, the video was made viral," a police official said.