Tensions Rise in Rajasthan’s Beawar Over Assault, Conversion Claims:

Beawar, Rajasthan – A tense atmosphere has gripped Beawar following allegations of sexual assault, blackmail, and forced religious conversions involving a group of schoolgirls. Protests, shutdowns, and rallies demanding justice for the victims have spread across the district.

Police Action: 11 Accused Detained, Including Minors

So far, police have detained 11 accused, including three minors, following complaints from the families of five survivors.
A total of three FIRs have been registered in connection with the case.
The first complaint was filed on February 16, based on statements from two families, while three more families came forward later with similar allegations.

According to reports, the accused allegedly contacted the girls via social media, gifted them Chinese mobile phones, and sexually exploited them.

Former Councillor Among the Arrested

Among those arrested is Hakim Qureshi, a former ward councillor, suspected of being involved in the case.

Masuda DSP Sajjan Singh confirmed his arrest.
A Kotda court has granted police five-day custody of Qureshi.

How the Incident Came to Light

According to an Indian Express report, the case was exposed after a father noticed money missing from his wallet. Upon questioning, his daughter confessed to taking the money.

Later, the mother discovered a hidden phone in her daughter’s school bag.
The parents found that their daughter was talking to a Muslim youth.
Her minor sister was also in contact with another Muslim youth.

When questioned, the girls revealed that the accused had recorded videos of their meetings and were blackmailing them to continue the relationship.

Communal Tensions Escalate in Beawar

The communal angle in the case has triggered protests across several locations:

Markets remained shut in Beawar.
Baghera, Nasirabad, and Bhinai also observed a complete shutdown.
Right-wing groups, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), held demonstrations demanding strict action.

Government and Political Reactions

Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari has vowed strict action against the culprits, while Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani held meetings with police officials, instructing them to take decisive action.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot slammed the ruling BJP government, citing recent cases of sexual violence against women in Beawar and Tonk.

“Will girls stop leaving their homes due to insecurity under BJP rule?” Gehlot questioned.

Demolition Notices Issued to Suspects

In a controversial move, the local municipality has sent demolition notices to the families of the suspects, citing illegal encroachments.

This step comes amid rising communal tensions, with protests demanding strict punishment for those arrested.

What’s Next?

With public outrage growing, authorities are under pressure to ensure a fair and swift investigation. The case is still developing, and further legal actions and political repercussions are expected in the coming days.