Chattisgarh News: In a deeply troubling episode from Jashpur, Chhattisgarh, a husband has accused local police of demanding a rooster and cash in order to file a rape complaint on behalf of his wife. This incident has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about police conduct in the region.The victims husband reported that on December 2, his wife was raped, prompting him to seek help at the Pandrapath police station. Upon arrival, he claims that the officer in charge demanded ₹5,000 and a rooster before they would even consider registering the case. The police told him that only after fulfilling these demands would they take action, sources reveal. This shocking request forced him to seek assistance from the Superintendent of Police (SP) after he felt his pleas were being ignored.The husband recounted his harrowing experience: I had to give ₹500 initially, and later I was compelled to hire a vehicle for ₹1,500 just to transport my wife for medical examinations. He further stated that he had to mortgage his land to gather the necessary funds, which highlights the dire financial situation faced by many in the tribal community.A community in despair: The struggles of the korwa tribeThe allegations have drawn attention not only because of their shocking nature but also due to the socio-economic context. The complainant belongs to the Korwa tribe, classified as a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG). He explained that he had borrowed ₹10,000, of which ₹9,000 had already been spent fulfilling police demands. I am a poor man I never imagined I would have to pay bribes just to report such a heinous crime, he lamented.The SP of Jashpur, Shashimohan Singh, responded to these allegations by suggesting that they may have been instigated by external influences. He stated, We are investigating the claims made by the complainant. However, he also noted that immediate action was taken against the alleged rapist following the initial complaint.Political fallout: Calls for accountability from former chief ministerThe incident has not only incited public outrage but has also attracted political attention. Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has condemned the actions of the police and called for accountability within the states law enforcement agencies. He has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene in this matter, emphasizing the need for systemic reform within the police force.Baghel shared a video on social media where the victims husband detailed his ordeal, stating that such incidents reflect poorly on the states governance and law enforcement capabilities. What is happening under an Adivasi chief ministers rule he questioned publicly.Call for justice and reformThis case underscores not only individual suffering but also systemic issues within law enforcement in tribal regions of India. The demands made by police raise serious ethical concerns about their commitment to protecting victims and upholding justice. As investigations continue, there is hope that this incident will lead to necessary reforms and greater accountability among police officers in Chhattisgarh.
