Anger over the alleged sexual assault and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Bairagarh spilled onto the streets on Saturday, with protesters blocking the Bhopal-Sehore Road for three to four hours. Members of the Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and local residents demanded death penalty for the accused or that he be handed over to the public. Some protesters also tried to enter Bairagarh police station but were stopped at the gate. Additional police personnel were deployed. Fast-track trial demanded: Protesters demanded a fast-track trial, swift punishment and demolition of the accused’s house.

 

They also sought assurances of firm action from senior police officers. The road blockade led to a traffic queue stretching about two kilometres, inconveniencing commuters. CCTV footage under investigation: Police said that CCTV footage showed the suspect taking the girl with him at night and returning alone later. Based on the footage and information from the family, police arrested 23-year-old Moin. ACP Ratnesh Tomar said that the investigation and legal process were underway. According to the ACP, the girl went missing on Thursday night, and her body was found around 8 am on Friday in an abandoned building behind Krishna Complex. Preliminary post-mortem findings reportedly indicated sexual violence and strangulation. Police said that the accused had been arrested and a case registered under relevant provisions; further sections may be added after the final post-mortem report. Police say situation under control: Tomar said that the main accused had been arrested and the protest-related traffic disruption brought under control. The family later took the girl’s body home for the last rites.