The prosecution has revealed disturbing new details in the ongoing TCS Nashik religious coercion case, claiming that the accused, Nida Khan, allegedly "groomed" one of the victims.
According to the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), Nida Khan, who is currently untraceable, played a central role in manipulating the victim. She reportedly made the victim wear a burqa and hijab, and even taught her how to perform namaz (prayers) and observe fasting during Ramadan. Additionally, Khan allegedly gave the victim several religious books and installed Islamic apps on her mobile phone.
The investigation also suggests that Khan repeatedly pressured the victim to convert to Islam. She allegedly warned the victim that if she refused to convert, her family would face misfortune.
As the investigation unfolds, two co-accused individuals are facing serious charges. Danish Shaikh is accused of sexually exploiting the victim under the false pretense of marriage, while another co-accused, Tasif Attar, allegedly harassed her sexually at the workplace.
The case has taken a darker turn with these new revelations, which point to a broader conspiracy involving international links, specifically to Malaysia, and the planned name change for the victim.
Since the complainant is from the Scheduled Caste community, police have invoked the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in the case.
During a private court hearing on Monday, Special Public Prosecutor Ajay Misar presented the new leads to the Nashik court. He argued that Khan's custodial interrogation is crucial for further progress in the investigation and urged the court not to grant her anticipatory bail.
