Congress Member of Parliament Rakesh Rathore was taken into custody by Uttar Pradesh police on Thursday in Sitapur. The arrest follows accusations of rape, which the police are actively investigating. Rathore was apprehended at his home during a press conference he had arranged to discuss the allegations against him.
The arrest occurred shortly after the Allahabad High Court rejected Rathore’s plea for anticipatory bail. This legal setback removed a significant barrier to his arrest, leading to the police action. Rathore represents the Sitapur constituency in the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of Parliament.
Police reports indicate the accusations originate from a 45-year-old woman. She alleges that Rathore raped her over four years. According to her claims, he manipulated her with false promises of marriage and political support. This alleged coercion is central to the criminal charges he now faces.
A police spokesperson stated that Rathore “used the pretext of marriage and helping her with [her] political career” to allegedly commit the crime. The denial of anticipatory bail by the high court was a crucial step leading directly to Rathore’s arrest. This case has attracted considerable attention due to the position of the accused and the nature of the charges.
The unfolding of the legal proceedings will be closely watched. The case raises questions about power, trust, and the justice system. Consequently, its outcome will likely have substantial repercussions on Rathore’s future in politics. The investigation into the rape accusations will continue, with the judicial process now underway.