Unnao (UP): The father of an 18-year-old woman, who had alleged rape by BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar and his brothers, died in custody here on Monday, prompting her to put the blame on the lawmaker.
“They belong to a low status family (‘nimn star ke log hain’)...This is a conspiracy by my opponents,” Sengar told reporters, but refused to comment on speculation about he being summoned by the chief minister.
The news of the death spread like wildfire with opposition and the civil society slamming the Adityanath government.
“This is a case of highhandedness because the political power and support that such men like Mr Sengar get from the government, from the CM himself. I think this is something extremely brazen,” leading activist Ranjana Kumari said adding that this was a typical case of a politician trying to “bully and bulldoze” people.
“The language he is using is really typical of rooky MLAs,” she said demanding a proper inquiry in the woman’s allegations.
Under fire, Chief Minister Adityanath sought a report into the custodial death.
“The incident is unfortunate. ADG, Lucknow, has been asked to give his report and probe the matter, and if any policeman is found guilty, action will be taken. Whosoever is guilty will not be spared,” Adityanath said.
The Unnao SP said six policemen, including SHO, Makhi, Ashok Kumar Singh, an outpost in charge and four beat constables were suspended.
“Whosoever is found guilty, strict action will be taken. None will be spared,” UP director general of Police O.P. Singh said.
Asked about the allegations against Sengar, the DGP said, “Till now these are allegations. Probe is on. Action will be taken against those found guilty.”
District Magistrate Ravi Kumar NG said the post-mortem examination of the victim would be conducted by a panel of doctors to ascertain the exact cause of death.
The woman, however, claimed her family had received threats in the past and accused the MLA.
He was “killed at the behest of the BJP MLA” inside the jail, she alleged. “We were getting threats and they killed my father,” she told reporters.
