Nalasopara, Palghar: In a chilling case of revenge and abduction, the Nalasopara Police have rescued a minor girl who was held captive for 12 days. While the rescue operation was a success, the case has now taken a controversial turn as associates of the accused attempt to defame the lead investigator, API Zarina Bagwan, through a coordinated social media campaign.
The Motive: Revenge for a Rejected Marriage Proposal
The ordeal began when a local youth, identified as Sonu Ingale, proposed marriage to a young woman. After she rejected his proposal and got engaged elsewhere, Ingale allegedly decided to strike back at the family.
On a fateful afternoon, Ingale intercepted the woman’s younger sister, Anushka (name changed), while she was on her way to a local shop. Using a deceitful tactic—claiming he had her elder sister in his custody—he forced the minor into a vehicle at knifepoint, assisted by 4-5 accomplices.
12 Days of Captivity and Torture
The victim’s testimony reveals a harrowing experience. During her 12-day illegal detention:
Drugged and Abused: The victim alleged that the accused mixed sedatives into her food, causing her to lose consciousness frequently.
Psychological Terror: The accused used superstitions, tying a red amulet around her neck and threatening her with a knife to ensure her silence.
Constant Fear: She was moved across locations to evade police detection.
API Zarina Bagwan: The Shield of Justice
As the impoverished family struggled to find help, Assistant Police Inspector (API) Zarina Bagwan of the Nalasopara Police took charge. Her involvement went far beyond her professional duty:
Relentless Search: Bagwan and her team worked day and night, tracking the accused through various technical and local intelligence channels.
Financial Support: Recognizing the family’s dire financial state, API Bagwan reportedly paid for the family’s food and transportation expenses out of her own pocket during the investigation.
Humanitarian Approach: Post-rescue, she acted as a counselor to the minor, ensuring she received the necessary emotional and psychological support.
The Conspiracy to Defame the Police
Following the arrest of the accused, a smear campaign was launched on social media. Relatives of Sonu Ingale have been accused of circulating fake videos and news to tarnish API Zarina Bagwan’s reputation. This is seen as a deliberate attempt to pressure the police and derail the legal proceedings.
The victim’s family and various pro-police organizations have come forward to condemn the defamation of an honest officer. They are demanding:
Fast-track trial and maximum punishment for Sonu Ingale.
Action against those spreading fake news under the IT Act.
State recognition/Reward for API Zarina Bagwan for her exceptional bravery and humanitarian service.
"If it wasn't for Bagwan Madam, we would have lost our daughter. Those trying to badmouth her are only trying to protect a criminal," said the victim's father during an exclusive interaction with Nyay Ranbhumi.
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