Ranchi police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Bhushan Bara, the Congress MLA from Simdega, following a complaint by a 14-year-old girl alleging sexual assault. The case has been filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. According to Hatia DSP Neeraj Kumar, the victim alleged that the incident occurred on August 5 at the MLA's residence in Ranchi.
In her complaint filed at the Dhurwa Police Station, the girl stated that she was brought to the MLA's home from Simdega in July by his wife and her sister under the pretext of receiving an education. However, she alleged that she was not enrolled in school and was instead forced to perform household chores. The minor also claimed that she was threatened into silence and forced to undergo an abortion following the alleged assault.
MLA Bhushan Bara has dismissed the accusations, labelling them a conspiracy orchestrated by opposition members and former Congress party affiliates to tarnish his reputation. “The girl left my house in July, and after four months she is raising allegations against me,” Bara stated, adding that he intends to cooperate with the police investigation. Congress media in-charge Rakesh Sinha noted that the party considers the matter sensitive and would await the outcome of the police inquiry before considering any disciplinary action, such as expulsion.
The allegations have triggered protests by the BJP, with state president Aditya Sahu demanding the MLA’s immediate arrest and questioning the silence of Congress leadership. Sahu further alleged that the victim’s family had accused the MLA’s relatives of physical, mental, and verbal harassment. The BJP has threatened a statewide agitation if prompt action is not taken against the legislator.
Key facts
- The FIR was registered against Bhushan Bara under the POCSO Act.
- The complainant is a 14-year-old girl who alleged the assault took place on August 5.
- The minor alleged she was brought to the residence for education but was subjected to domestic labour and a forced abortion.
- BJP state president Aditya Sahu has demanded the immediate arrest of the MLA.
- Congress spokesperson Rakesh Sinha stated the party will monitor the investigation before deciding on potential disciplinary steps.
Why it matters
The case has sparked significant political friction in Jharkhand, with the BJP initiating demonstrations to pressure authorities for an arrest. The state's ruling coalition faces mounting scrutiny, as the opposition questions whether the government will protect the accused or ensure a transparent investigation for the victim.
Source: Times of India, Indian Express
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