Ajmer Scandal: Six Convicted in 1992 Sexual Exploitation Case Sentenced to Life Imprisonment
Ajmer, 20th August 2024: After three decades, justice has been served in the infamous Ajmer sexual exploitation case, where over 100 girls were victimized. A special court in Ajmer has sentenced six convicts, including Farooq Chishti, former Youth Congress president, to life imprisonment. These individuals lured girls to parties under false pretenses and subjected them to horrific abuse. The court also imposed a fine of ₹30 lakh on each convict. The Ajmer scandal, which shocked the nation in 1992, resurfaced in court, leading to this landmark judgment under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The case initially came to light when nude photographs of college-going girls began circulating in Ajmer in 1992, revealing the heinous crimes committed by Chishti and his associates. The perpetrators would drug and sexually assault the girls, blackmailing them with compromising photos to coerce them into bringing more victims. The scandal involved 18 accused, of which nine have now been sentenced. The convicted individuals include Farooq Chishti, Salim Chishti, Sohail Gani, Jameel Chishti, Iqbal Bhati, and Tarzan, with others linked to the crime also arrested.
What Was the Case?
The Ajmer scandal involved Farooq Chishti, the then Youth Congress president, who, along with his accomplices, targeted young girls by inviting them to parties at farmhouses and restaurants. The girls were drugged and raped, and their nude photographs were used to blackmail them. Despite the gravity of the crime, the police were initially reluctant to take action, and those who spoke out were threatened. However, 18 brave victims came forward to testify in court, leading to the conviction of the six individuals.
This verdict is seen as a significant victory for the victims and a stern reminder of the importance of justice, no matter how long it takes.
