Hindu Group Leader Arrested on Rape Charges
Bilaspur | Correspondent: In a swift action against crimes against women, Sarkanda police on Tuesday arrested a man accused of sexually exploiting a woman over several years under the pretext of marriage, and forcing her to undergo an abortion. The accused, Rajeev Sharma, was taken into custody within hours of the complaint being filed and was subsequently produced before the court.
The victim lodged a complaint at Sarkanda police station on January 12, 2026, stating that she was married in 2003 and has two children.
She said that her husband had gone missing some time ago, and while searching for him, she came into contact with Rajeev Sharma, who offered to help locate her husband and gradually gained her trust.
Rape Under the Pretext of Marriage
According to the victim, the accused took advantage of her vulnerable situation by promising to marry her and keep her as his wife.
In 2022, he allegedly took her to his residence in Rajkishore Nagar, intimidated her, and forcibly engaged in sexual relations. When she later asked him to formalize the marriage, the accused allegedly began threatening her and her children with death.
The woman further alleged that when she became pregnant, the accused forced her to undergo an abortion. Even after the birth of a baby girl, Sharma reportedly continued to issue threats of abduction and murder, causing her to live under prolonged fear.
Claimed Association with a Hindu Organization
Reports indicate that the accused is a leader of a Hindu organization, known for presenting himself as a preacher of Hindutva and moral values. The allegations against him have raised serious concerns in the community.
Considering the gravity of the case, Senior Superintendent of Police Rajnesh Singh directed immediate action. Under the guidance of Additional Superintendent of Police Anuj Kumar and City Superintendent of Police Nimitesh Singh, a team led by Sarkanda police station in-charge Pradeep Arya arrested Rajeev Sharma (42), a resident of Rajkishore Nagar, Sarkanda, on January 13, 2026.
Police officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and further legal proceedings will follow in accordance with the law.
