BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, who was named accused in the rape of an 18-year-old girl whose father died in custody in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao on 9 April, rejected the charge as a conspiracy by his opponents. He further said that the complainant belonged to a "low class".
"They are low-status people (“nimn star ke log hain”)... This is a conspiracy by my opponents," Sengar told reporters, but refused to comment on speculation about him being summoned by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The woman's father, aged around 50, was rushed to a hospital from the district jail late late Sunday night. He died during treatment on 9 April, officials said. He was arrested on 5 April under the Arms Act, they added.
‘Incident is Totally Fake’: Sengar
Speaking to mediapersons, Sengar demanded a high-level inquiry and sought action against those guilty.
Sengar represents the Bangermau constituency in Unnao district.
"Let a probe be conducted, and the guilty be given stringent punishment. If I am found guilty in the probe, I am ready to face punishment," he said.
To a question on whether he will resign, Sengar said, "Has anyone given resignation only because his name has figured in any case? Will you resign if anyone takes your name? This incident is totally fake as the sole intention is to defame me by those feeling frustrated because of my popularity and working style.”
The woman had on Sunday tried to immolate herself near Adityanath's residence, alleging rape by the BJP MLA and his brothers. The immolation bid was, however, foiled by the police. She had alleged that the Unnao police had not registered a case against the BJP MLA despite her complaint and no action was taken, police said.
The incident is unfortunate. Lucknow ADG has been asked to give his report and probe the matter, and if any policeman is found guilty, action will be taken. Whosoever is guilty will not be spared.Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
Activists Tear Apart MLA’s Remark
The news of the rape survivor’s father’s death spread like wildfire with opposition and the civil society slamming the Adityanath government.
"This is a case of high-handedness because the political power and support that such men like Sengar get from the government, from the CM himself. I think this is something extremely brazen," leading activist Ranjana Kumari said adding that this was a typical case of a politician trying to "bully and bulldoze" people.
"The language he is using is really typical of rookie MLAs," she said demanding a proper inquiry in the woman's allegations.
(With PTI inputs)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)