SP leader accused of rape detained, let off

A Samajwadi Party leader who is also Zila Panchayat Member of Sant Ravidas Nagar district in Bhadohi was detained by police for allegedly raping a woman at a tourist bungalow, but was allowed to leave Gopiganj police station after two SP MLAs and party workers gathered there on Wednesday evening.

The police claimed the accused, Mewa Lal Yadav, was let off since prima facie evidence against him was weak. The police, however, claimed the accused was made to undergo a medical examination before being let off, while the complainant was sent for a medical examination.

The complainant was initially not willing to undergo medical examination or reveal her address, the police said.

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Asked if the accused was let go due to pressure from SP leaders, Bhadohi SP Vikramaditya Sachan said since the accused was from SP, other party leaders reached the police station. “We have proceeded as per norms,” he said.

The Gopiganj police had reached the tourist bungalow, located along National Highway 2, following a call about an alleged rape. Both Yadav and the woman were taken to the police station.