Pune: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has directed authorities to fast-track forensic analysis and submit progress reports every five days in connection with the Paratwada case in Amravati. It also sought application of stricter legal provisions while flagging gaps in the ongoing probe into the alleged creation and circulation of obscene videos and images of young girls.NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, who reviewed the case during an online meeting with the Amravati administration on Friday, expressed “deep concern” over the gravity of the allegations and questioned whether adequate legal sections had been applied. “Why have more stringent provisions not been invoked at this stage?” she asked.Emphasising the sensitive nature of the case, Rahatkar said many survivors might be reluctant to come forward due to fear of social stigma and defamation. “There is a need for robust witness protection measures and in-camera proceedings to protect the identity and dignity of survivors,” she said, while underscoring the importance of community outreach to encourage people to report such crimes without fear.Rahatkar also directed authorities to intensify efforts to trace and retrieve all objectionable material. She also called for an examination of any possible financial angle in the circulation of the content, including potential commercial exploitation through digital platforms, and sought clarity on any links between the accused and the premises where the alleged incidents occurred.According to the investigation, the case involves the exploitation of multiple young girls, with objectionable content allegedly recorded and circulated via digital platforms. The matter has raised serious concerns over the misuse of technology, the extent of circulation of such material, and the safety and dignity of the survivors.SP (Rural) Vishal Anand informed NCW that eight accused had been arrested so far. “All necessary steps are being taken to ensure stringent action against those involved and that NCW has been assured of strict compliance. Witness protection remains a priority, and more FIRs are likely to be registered as additional victims or witnesses come forward,” Anand told TOI, adding that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to ensure a swift and transparent investigation, would submit progress reports every five days.Rahatkar also directed authorities to coordinate with the Maharashtra Cyber Cell to ensure the permanent removal of all objectionable content from online platforms to prevent further harm.Bawankule reviews probeAmravati guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Saturday visited the SP office to review the ongoing investigation into the Paratwada case. Senior police officers told TOI that a 15-year-old survivor had agreed to give her statement in the case.
