Khajuraho: A case of alleged grooming has surfaced in Madhya Pradesh, where a man identified as Shakeel Khan was detained after being found with a minor girl at a hotel in Khajuraho, located in Chhatarpur district.
The incident, referred to by members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) as a love jihad case, came to light after activists reached the hotel based on inputs they claimed to have received, alleging that the accused had been bringing minor girls to the premises.
On the day of the incident, activists went to room number 205 of the hotel. They alleged that the occupant initially refused to open the door and denied that anyone else was inside. Suspecting foul play, the group entered the room and conducted a search.
During the search, a minor girl was found hiding inside a cupboard. Activists claimed she appeared distressed and asked for help. The man was subsequently taken to the police station.
Phone seized, investigation underway
The activists also alleged that objectionable videos were found on the accused’s mobile phone. Police have seized the device and are examining its contents as part of the ongoing investigation.
Local residents have expressed concern that the matter could be linked to a larger network. Allegations have also been made against the hotel management for reportedly failing to conduct proper identity verification before allotting the room.
Station House Officer Prashant Sen of Khajuraho Police Station confirmed that the accused has been taken into custody for questioning. The minor girl has been sent to the Women’s Help Desk in Chhatarpur for counselling and to record her statement. Police said further legal action will be determined based on the girl’s statement and the evidence recovered. The investigation is ongoing.
