Rape-accused BJP leader Chinmayanand finally arrested, sent to 14-days custody
What's the story
Days after a 23-year-old student accused him of rape, former Union Minister Chinmayanand was finally arrested on Friday by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). The BJP leader, who is quite influential and runs several ashrams, was taken into custody at 8:50 am. Subsequently, the politician was sent to 14 days of judicial custody. Here are more details.
Context
Backstory: Student claimed Chinmayanand raped her for months
Last month, the student released an explosive video clip claiming that a big leader of "saint community" harassed her. After the video went viral, the woman went missing and was traced to Rajasthan a week later. Later, she appeared before media and alleged that Chinmayanand raped her for a year. She was also forced to give massages to the 72-year-old politician.
Twitter Post
Spot visuals: SIT finally arrested Chinmayanand
Shahjahanpur: BJP leader Swami Chinmayanand has been arrested in connection with the alleged sexual harassment of a UP law student. pic.twitter.com/gxZxr81qN6
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 20, 2019
Threats
Earlier, woman threatened self-immolation if Chinmayanand isn't arrested
To recall, the student wasn't pleased with the pace of SIT's investigation. On Wednesday, she threatened to set herself on fire if he is not arrested immediately. "Despite recording my testimony under Section 164 and investigation by the agencies for over 15 days, why has not Chinmayanand been arrested," she said. She asked if her death would wake authorities up from their slumber.
Health
Chinmayanand's health worsened after victim demanded his arrest
While the woman demanded strict action against the politician, he "fell ill" to an extent that he had to be hospitalized. Chief Medical Superintendent Dr. MP Gangwar had revealed that a team of doctors was being set up and the BJP leader would be kept under observation. Before being admitted, he underwent a "medical treatment" at his home.
Defense
Separately, SIT said a "media trial" won't influence it
As the woman raised questions on SIT's process, its chief Naveen Arora said a "media trial" won't be able to influence it. "We can't be swayed by a particular person or media trial. You will have to have faith in some agency. If the investigation is going in the wrong direction, the High Court will monitor us," Arora told media recently.