Madhya Pradesh Tensions Escalate After Obscene Video of Minor Girl Circulated in Blackmail Attempt

Shamgarh city experienced a near-complete shutdown following the disturbing case. (Representational)

Bhopal:

Significant tensions gripped Madhya Pradesh's Shamgarh city on Friday after the revelation of a horrific case involving blackmail and circulation of an obscene video featuring a 16-year-old Class 12 student. The incident triggered widespread outrage throughout Shamgarh, compelling authorities to implement a comprehensive shutdown and deploy substantial police forces to maintain public order.

Additional law enforcement personnel from surrounding areas were promptly mobilized to prevent any potential escalation. The perpetrators responsible for the crime have been apprehended.

The two accused individuals - identified as Rihan and Babu - allegedly entered the minor's residence on November 6 during the family's absence. According to police reports, Rihan threatened the victim at knifepoint, forced her to record an inappropriate video using her mother's mobile phone, and subsequently transferred the content to his own device.

Rihan demanded Rs 5 lakh from the victim's family, threatening to publish the video online if they failed to comply. Fearing the consequences, the family managed to arrange Rs 2 lakh, which the accused collected. However, after failing to extort the remaining amount, he allegedly released the video online Thursday evening.

When the video began circulating on social media platforms, hundreds of concerned residents gathered at the Shamgarh police station Thursday night, demanding immediate intervention from authorities.

The public outrage intensified on Friday, with Hindu organizations joining the protests, resulting in a complete suspension of commercial activities, traffic movement, and public mobility throughout Shamgarh.

In response to the mounting public anger, the Municipal Council initiated actions against the residences of Rihan and Babu. Officials disconnected water services and commenced property measurements as part of administrative proceedings. Local residents are demanding demolition of the accused's homes and severe punishment for the perpetrators.

Law enforcement responded swiftly, filing cases under relevant BNS sections related to extortion, intimidation, and criminal force, along with charges under the POCSO Act and IT Act.

Police officials stated: "An obscene video of the girl was created, and money was demanded. When the payment wasn't provided, the video was distributed online. A serious case was immediately registered. Multiple teams were deployed, and both accused individuals were arrested within 12 hours. The extortion aspect remains under investigation."

Despite the arrests, tension persists throughout Shamgarh as residents continue demanding exemplary punishment. Many businesses remain closed, and police presence has been significantly enhanced to prevent further disturbances.