Varanasi: On a day meant to highlight development projects in his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Varanasi took a grave turn as he was immediately briefed on the horrific gangrape of a 19-year-old woman in the city.
According to a statement released by the Uttar Pradesh government, the prime minister was briefed by the Police Commissioner, Divisional Commissioner, and District Magistrate soon after landing. The briefing revolved around the brutal assault that has left the city in shock.
“He instructed them to take the strictest possible action against the culprits and to implement appropriate measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” the statement added, indicating the PM’s serious concern over the matter.
The case has sent shockwaves across Uttar Pradesh. As per officials, nine accused have been taken into custody and sent to judicial remand. Authorities have confirmed that the 19-year-old victim, a student, had left her home on March 29 to meet a friend, only to later be found in a severely distressed condition on April 4.
The victim’s father has demanded justice and swift punishment for those involved. “She left to see a friend, but what happened next destroyed her,” he told local reporters, his voice choked with emotion.
The incident has sparked outrage from both citizens and political leaders alike, demanding stronger safety measures in the state. With 23 people named in the FIR so far, police say the investigation is ongoing and further arrests are expected.
