Muzaffarpur shelter abuse case: Under attack, Bihar Social Welfare Minister Manju Verma quits

Verma had earlier claimed that her husband had visited the shelter only once, and that too in her presence. She had alleged that she was being targeted because she belonged to the Kushwaha caste, an OBC group.

“She felt that the party and the government were being grilled. Therefore, she has resigned. It is not on account of political pressure. It was her own decision,” said JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar.

Main accused Brajesh Thakur being taken to a special POCSO court in Muzaffarpur on Wednesday. Protesters threw ink at Thakur while he was on his way to the court. (PTI Photo)

What appears to have precipitated her resignation is media reports that key accused Brajesh Thakur’s call detail records showed that he had spoken to her husband 17 times, from January to June this year.

Speaking to reporters from a prison van in the court compound at Muzaffarpur, Thakur admitted that he used to speak to the minister’s husband, Chandeshwar Verma, but claimed it was “on political issues”.

The chief minister had earlier said that action would be taken against anybody, howsoever mighty, if the person was found to be involved in the case. — With PTI, Patna

From the homepage

US clears Excalibur artillery shells, Javelin anti-tank systems for India

SC clarifies Governor’s powers: How it answered 14 questions referred by President

90% of selected students Muslim, Sangh outfits want admission for Vaishnodevi medical college scrapped