The case involving the alleged rape of a 22-year-old woman in Pune has taken a complex turn, with police now casting doubt on the woman’s initial account and suggesting that key aspects of her claims may not be consistent with the evidence.
Key Points from the Investigation:
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Consent & Prior Relationship:Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar stated that the woman and the accused had been in contact for nearly a year and knew each other well. He claimed the accused entered the woman's home with her consent, and that a selfie taken on her phone and a threatening message were both the result of actions taken with mutual knowledge — the message, police say, was even typed by the woman herself.
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Contradictory Claims:Despite initial allegations of rape, the woman reportedly refused to identify the accused after his arrest, saying he was not the one involved — even though CCTV evidence showed only he had entered the building at the relevant time. Kumar suggested this withholding of information hindered the investigation.
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Alleged Entry as Delivery Executive:The accused reportedly posed as a delivery agent, claiming to have a letter requiring her signature. Once inside, he allegedly locked the door, followed her into the house, and committed the assault. The woman initially claimed he used a chemical spray to knock her unconscious, but police have found no evidence of such a substance.
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Evidence Under Scrutiny:The selfie and the message that read “I will come again” were initially considered threatening, but police now say the selfie was taken with consent, and the message was typed by the woman. This has raised questions about her state of mind, which police say is currently "not good."
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Current Status:The accused is in police custody. He is reportedly well-educated and employed at a multinational company. Investigators are currently re-evaluating the rape allegation and exploring other possible motives or mental health factors that may have influenced the woman’s complaint.
What’s Next:
As of now, the investigation remains open, and police are being cautious due to the sensitive nature of the case. Forensic reports, digital evidence (such as call records and phone data), and psychological evaluations of the woman may all influence the eventual legal direction.
This case underscores the importance of thorough, unbiased investigation when conflicting narratives and sensitive allegations arise.
