WOMAN ALLEGEDLY RAPED INSIDE JHARKHAND POLICE STATION; CHAMPAI SOREN CONDEMNS ‘JUNGLE RAJ’
November 1, 2026
A woman was allegedly raped inside Gamharia police station in Jharkhand’s Seraikela-Kharsawan district, triggering widespread criticism of the state’s police administration. Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren condemned the incident, describing it as the “most repulsive image of jungle raj” in the state and questioning the safety of women seeking police assistance.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred on the night of October 29 after the woman left her home following a dispute with her husband, fearing that she might be assaulted. She subsequently took shelter at a neighbour’s residence and contacted the police for help. A police response vehicle brought her to Gamharia police station, where officers arranged a room for her to rest.
The woman alleged that a police wireless operator, identified as Neeraj Lakra, subsequently entered the room and sexually assaulted her. Following the complaint, the accused constable was arrested and remanded to judicial custody. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the allegations.
Authorities have also suspended five police personnel, including the officer-in-charge of Gamharia police station, Sanjay Prasad, over alleged negligence and dereliction of duty. The accused's clothing has been seized for forensic examination, while investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the incident and the conduct of personnel present at the station.
Reacting to the case, Champai Soren questioned how women could expect protection when an alleged sexual assault occurred inside a police station. He criticised the absence of female police personnel when the woman was brought to the station and demanded stringent action against those responsible. He also called for accountability among senior police officials, arguing that suspension alone would not adequately address the seriousness of the incident.
The incident has also triggered political criticism from the Opposition. BJP leaders have accused the Hemant Soren-led government of failing to ensure women's safety and demanded an impartial investigation and strict punishment for those involved.
The case has raised serious questions about institutional accountability, police conduct and the safeguards available to women seeking protection from law-enforcement authorities. The investigation is continuing, and the allegations will be subject to judicial examination.
