Padra: A 28-year-old lawyer from Padra has been arrested by Atladara police for allegedly raping and blackmailing a 19-year-old student of Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) in Vadodara. The arrest followed protests by Hindu organizations outside the police station late Tuesday night, creating a tense atmosphere in the Padra region.

Accused Ran Tuition Classes:

The accused, identified as Kasam Salim Chauhan, who resides on Ranu Road, Ambasaki, Padra, used to run tuition classes at his home. The victim, who is from Padra taluka and currently a first-year B.Com student at MSU, attended these classes when she was in 11th and 12th grade. Even after completing her 12th grade, the two remained in contact over the phone.

Blackmail and Rape Allegations:

According to the police, approximately six months ago, Chauhan called the victim and persuaded her to go for a ride. He allegedly took her to a secluded spot near Sant Kabir School, where he showed her photographs they had taken together earlier. He then threatened to make the photos viral if she did not have a relationship with him, and allegedly raped her. The victim stated that he continued to sexually assault her on numerous occasions.

Pregnancy Test and Family Confrontation:

In January, when the victim missed her period, Chauhan reportedly provided her with a pregnancy test kit and asked her to take the test. During this time, her mother also learned about the pregnancy. The victim then revealed the alleged rape and blackmail to her mother.

Arrest and Investigation:

The incident sparked widespread outrage in Padra taluka. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Ashok Rathwa held a press conference on Tuesday evening to announce Chauhan’s arrest. The victim had filed a rape complaint at the Atladara police station, leading to the arrest and subsequent interrogation of Advocate Kasam Chauhan.