Bawankule Asks Leaders To Avoid Media Trial In Amravati Case

Mumbai: A day after Maharashtra State Minorities Commission (SMC) chairman Pyare Khan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking action against former Lok Sabha MP Navneet Rana, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Saturday urged all concerned to submit evidence directly to the police instead of sharing details with the media.

Referring to the alleged sexual exploitation of minor girls in Paratwada in Amravati district, Mr. Bawankule said the investigation is underway and that one of the victims has come forward to record her statement.

The minister’s remarks come amid a political storm triggered by statements from ruling party leaders, including BJP leader and former MP Navneet Rana and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Anil Bonde. Ms. Rana had claimed that over 150 Hindu girls, including minors, were targeted.

Following the controversy, a team of seven to eight members from the SMC visited the area to assess the situation and verify the allegations. Mr. Khan termed Ms. Rana’s claims “inflammatory and misleading”, noting that she had alleged through the media that “180 Hindu girls are being exploited” and described it as “jihad” without official confirmation or completion of the police probe.

Sources said BJP leaders had advised Ms. Rana and Mr. Bonde against making unverified statements in the media.

Mr. Bawankule said that if Mr. Bonde had any evidence, it should be submitted to the police. “I request Ms. Rana, Mr. Bonde and Pyare Khan not to create an atmosphere of tension through the media. Any evidence should be handed over to the police for investigation,” he said, adding that public statements should not mislead the probe.

Mr. Bawankule held a review meeting on Saturday with Amravati Police Commissioner Rakesh Ola and Superintendent of Police Vishal Anand. He said instructions had been issued to ensure a thorough, sensitive and strict investigation, and to ensure that no accused escapes legal action. Efforts are also underway to trace absconding suspects. He appealed to victims who have not yet lodged complaints to come forward without fear and contact the police, assuring them of full support from the state administration.

When asked about possible action against those accused of defaming Amravati district, Mr. Bawankule said the matter would depend on the outcome of the investigation.