Uttar Pradesh 'ashram' manager held for raping woman year ago

AGRA: The police have arrested a man accused of raping a woman, who lived in an 'ashram' here in Uttar Pradesh, about an year ago.

The victim, who has been staying in the Brahma Kumari Ashram for four years, told the police that the 'ashram' manager Bhagwan Singh raped her about a year ago and threatened her of dire consequences if she complained.

She said that the accused tried to molest her again two days ago but she managed to escape and sought the help of neighbours who took her to the Sikandra police station where she lodged her complaint.

The victim claimed that some of other women in the 'ashram' were also molested by the accused.

The accused, however, told reporters in the police station that he had consensual relations with the victim.

"Two days ago, this woman had a fight with other women in the 'ashram' and when I intervened in the matter, she threatened to get me booked," said the accused.

Circle Officer of Hari Parvat police station Gopal Chaudhary said that other inmates of the ashram were being interrogated and investigation was on.