Manhunt Continues for Rape Accused in Madhya Pradesh as Public Outrage Grows

Public outrage has escalated in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen district as police fail to apprehend Salman, alias Nazar, who is accused of raping a six-year-old girl. Despite over 300 officers searching for him, the 23-year-old suspect remains at large more than 144 hours after the crime.

Adding to the controversy, two videos have emerged showing Salman in Gauharganj—the location of the crime—after the incident occurred. In one video, he appears giving directions to a tractor driver, while another shows him purchasing cigarettes from a local shop. Raisen police have confirmed the authenticity of these recordings.

The assault reportedly took place on November 21 when Salman allegedly lured the child with the promise of chocolate while she played outside her home. He then took her to a nearby forest where he sexually assaulted her before escaping. The victim's family discovered her after searching when she went missing, having been informed she was last seen with Salman. Medical examination at a government hospital confirmed the rape, after which she was transferred to AIIMS, Bhopal.

Inspector General of Police Mithilesh Kumar Shukla stated that 10-11 teams are working to capture Salman. "Wherever we get a lead, we will apprehend him soon. It's true that there is public anger, but we will apprehend the accused soon. Our teams have been working since the events that unfolded from day one."

The manhunt includes widespread distribution of the suspect's posters, drone surveillance, and a Rs 30,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. The delayed capture has created a tense atmosphere in Gauharganj, with an unofficial curfew leaving streets empty as residents stay indoors. Security forces from six districts, including over 500 personnel and the Quick Response Force, have been deployed to maintain order.

A peaceful demonstration at Gauharganj school ground on Wednesday, five days after the incident, demanded Salman's immediate arrest. However, the situation escalated when some protesters later approached the Muslim Bawali settlement, prompting police intervention with a mild lathi charge. This action triggered stone-pelting from the crowd, which police dispersed using tear gas.

In response to growing criticism and apparent negligence, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered the Raisen Superintendent of Police to be attached to headquarters and removed the Misrod Station House Officer from their position.