UP woman accuses Congress MP Rakesh Rathore of rape, threats

LUCKNOW: A 20-year-old woman from Sitapur has accused Member of Parliament Rakesh Rathore, representing Sitapur, of rape, exploitation, issuing death threats, and wrongful confinement.An FIR has been registered at the Kotwali police station in Sitapur.In a written complaint to the Superintendent of Police, Sitapur, the woman detailed her ordeal, alleging that her association with the MP began in 2018 when he proposed a political collaboration under his patronage.She claimed that the accused used his position to build trust, appointing her as the Women's District President of the Tailik Mahasangh.However, in March 2020, Rakesh allegedly confined her in his house and raped her. He later promised marriage and political advancement to gain her silence while continuing the assault.She further alleged that after becoming an MP in 2024, Rakesh forced her to sign blank papers, threatened her life, and declared that she would remain his mistress.The victim's family is reportedly living in fear due to continuous harassment.Superintendent of Police, Sitapur, Chakresh Mishra, stated that the woman had approached him on January 15. Following preliminary investigations, an FIR was registered against the MP on charges of rape, criminal intimidation, and wrongful confinement at the Kotwali police station.Mishra added that during the investigation, electronic evidence was collected, the victim underwent a medical examination, and her statement was recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC, where she confirmed the incident."The police are actively gathering further evidence and have assured the complainant of appropriate protection. Legal proceedings are underway and will be concluded promptly," he said.The victim has urged the authorities to take necessary action against the accused. The case remains under investigation.(The victim's identity has not been revealed to protect her privacy as per Supreme court directives on cases related to sexual assault)