Raisen in Uproar as Suspect in Child Sexual Assault Case Remains at Large

Raisen, Madhya Pradesh: Tensions have escalated in Raisen district as the accused in a heinous sexual assault case against a six-year-old girl continues to evade arrest three days after the incident. The accused, identified as Salman (23), remains at large despite continuous police efforts, prompting furious locals to block National Highway-46 in protest.

Incident Details

The crime occurred early Wednesday morning around 8:00 AM in the Gauharganj police jurisdiction. According to police reports, Salman brutally assaulted the six-year-old child, sparking widespread outrage across the area. Despite intensive search operations over the past 72 hours, the suspect has not been apprehended.

Public Anger and Protests

Outraged residents, particularly women and children, staged a sit-in protest outside the Gauharganj police station demanding immediate justice. In spite of freezing temperatures, more than a hundred people remained on the streets, expressing frustration over perceived police inaction. The police had previously announced a reward of ₹10,000 for information leading to the arrest, which has now been doubled to ₹20,000.

Locals voiced their fear and discontent, stating, “If such brutality can occur against a young child and the perpetrator is still free, how can we feel safe? The police must arrest him immediately.”

Police Operations Continue

Police officials confirmed that multiple teams are conducting intensive raids and searches in the area, including the dense forests of Amrathon. Officers, including SP Pankaj Pandey and SDOP Sheel Surana, are coordinating the manhunt. Although several leads have emerged, no breakthrough has yet been achieved, fueling public anger and mistrust.

Highway Blockade and Law Enforcement Response

The public protests disrupted traffic along National Highway-46, affecting regions up to Misrod and toll plazas in Bhopal. Long queues formed, and traffic came to a standstill on roads such as Bhojpur and Bangarsia, stretching 5–7 km. During the blockade, efforts by the Mandi Deep Municipal Fire Brigade to clear the roads were met with resistance, forcing police to resort to baton charges to disperse the crowd.

The Raisen case has drawn widespread attention, underscoring the urgent need for swift action against perpetrators of sexual violence and stronger measures to ensure the safety of vulnerable citizens.