Paratwada (Amravati): Acting on the directions of Maharashtra State Minority Commission chairman, Pyare Khan, a special inquiry committee conducted a detailed probe into the sexual abuse case reported from Amravati and submitted its preliminary findings after visiting Paratwada, Achalpur and Amravati city on Thursday.Pyare Khan told TOI that the panel’s visit and the police investigation have made it clear that all the survivors identified so far are Muslim girls, which, according to him, exposes propaganda and fake narratives being spread by vested interests.He stated that there appears to be a deliberate attempt to disturb communal harmony and create tensions between communities in Maharashtra, and that this ploy was laid bare through the findings of both the police and the committee.The inquiry committee, comprising Mushtak Pathan, officer on special duty of the Minority Commission and District Child Protection Officer, Nagpur; Sanjay Gat, District Women and Child Development Officer, Amravati; Ajay Dable, District Child Protection Officer, Amravati; Kirty Sadane, social worker, District Child Protection Unit, Amravati; and Namrata Kadu, protection officer, District Child Protection Unit, Amravati, carried out a comprehensive on-ground assessment of the case.During the visit, the committee met the district collector of Amravati and reviewed the administrative response while also holding detailed discussions with the superintendent of police Amravati. Inputs were also obtained from the assistant superintendent of police, Paratwada, regarding the crime scene and progress of the probe, while coordination was established with multiple departments to verify all aspects of the case.The committee noted that preliminary information regarding the survivors was gathered. Members said that none of the survivors have come forward to record their statements, which remains a major challenge in the investigation.The report pointed out that the incident has created an atmosphere of unease among locals, making it crucial for the administration to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation, especially given the sensitive nature of the case.Observing that the reluctance of survivors to come forward is the biggest hurdle, the committee members underlined the importance of maintaining confidentiality and handling the matter carefully to avoid further social tension. The committee members stated that information gathering is still underway. Efforts will also be made to counsel the survivors and encourage them to record their statements, while ensuring all necessary steps are taken to maintain law and order, members said.A comprehensive final report will be submitted to Pyare Khan, including complete details of the case, and the offences registered by police.
