Overview

• Farhan Ali, the main accused in the Bhopal rape and blackmail case, was injured in a police shooting during an alleged escape attempt while being escorted to a crime scene.
• The fifth suspect, Nabeel, was arrested after evading police by hiding in multiple locations, with one suspect, Abrar Khan, still at large.
• Authorities have invoked the Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act and POCSO Act, citing allegations of forced conversions and systematic exploitation since 2017.
• Protests by BJP leaders, Hindu groups, and women’s organizations have intensified, with demands for stricter punishments, including the death penalty for the accused.
• The state government plans awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to educate students about exploitation and 'love jihad,' aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.