In a shocking and reprehensible incident, two men were arrested in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, on Tuesday night for allegedly gang-raping a 22-year-old woman with hearing and speech impairments.
The victim was returning home on Monday evening when the accused, identified as Ankur Verma and Harshit Pandey (both in their 20s), abducted and assaulted her.
The police arrested them after an intense shootout, during which both suspects sustained injuries.
How the Crime Unfolded
According to the police, the victim had visited her maternal uncle’s house on Monday but did not return home on time, prompting her family to search for her. When they found her, she was in a state of distress—crying and with her clothes disheveled.
Unable to speak, she used sign language to communicate to her mother that two men on a motorcycle had offered her a ride under the pretense of dropping her home. Instead, they took her to a secluded spot and raped her.
Police Action and Investigation
The family immediately reported the crime, leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) about gang rape.
The victim was sent for a medical examination, which confirmed sexual assault. Fortunately, her condition is now stable, and she has been discharged from the hospital.
Using CCTV footage from the area, the police identified the accused. Balrampur Superintendent of Police Vikas Kumar stated, “The accused were visible in the footage, and they later confessed to the crime during interrogation.”
Dramatic Arrest After Shootout
When the police located the suspects, they attempted to flee, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Harshit Pandey was shot in the leg, while Ankur Verma injured himself after jumping from a 14-foot height in a desperate escape attempt.
The police recovered a country-made pistol, live cartridges, and the motorcycle used in the crime from their possession.
Background of the Accused
Investigations revealed that Ankur Verma, who runs a shop near the victim’s maternal uncle’s house, was acquainted with her. He allegedly took advantage of her vulnerability when he saw her walking alone. Harshit Pandey, a farmer with a history of alcoholism, was his accomplice.
Clarification on Viral Video
A disturbing video circulating on social media purportedly shows the victim running in panic before the incident. However, the Station House Officer (SHO) clarified that the footage was recorded **before** the accused approached her.
“Since it was dark, she was running to reach home quickly. Locals confirmed that she often moved in this manner while walking,”* the SHO explained.
Justice for the Survivor
The case has sparked outrage, with demands for swift and stringent punishment for the perpetrators. The police have assured a thorough investigation and a strong chargesheet to ensure justice for the survivor.
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