A 70-year-old man has been arrested in Gujarat’s Mahisagar district after being accused of raping his 26-year-old relative, a woman with a mental disability, in a case that has drawn concern in the local community.
Police said the incident was reported in Lunawada, where the accused allegedly targeted the woman while she was alone. According to investigators, the man is a neighbour as well as an extended family member of the survivor.
Authorities said a complaint was filed at the local police station after the woman later informed her mother about the alleged assault. Officers then opened an investigation and moved swiftly to arrest the suspect.
Allegations in the police complaint
According to police, the accused allegedly lured the woman to his house before carrying out the assault inside the residence. Investigators said he had allegedly created privacy beforehand by sending his wife away from the home.
Police further alleged that once the woman entered the house, the man locked the door and sexually assaulted her. The survivor was also allegedly threatened and warned not to disclose what had happened.
The woman later confided in her mother, who subsequently approached authorities and filed a formal complaint.
Investigators have not publicly identified the accused or the survivor, in line with privacy protections commonly applied in sexual assault cases.
Arrest made, accused in custody
Following the complaint, police registered a case under relevant legal provisions and arrested the 70-year-old suspect.
Officials said the accused has since been remanded to judicial custody while the investigation continues. Authorities have not released additional information regarding evidence gathered so far or whether further forensic or witness statements are being recorded.
Police confirmed that the case is being pursued under laws relating to sexual assault as well as offences involving persons with disabilities.
Community concern and wider issues
The case has prompted concern in the Lunawada area, where residents have reacted with shock over the allegations involving a vulnerable woman and an elderly family acquaintance.
Incidents involving persons with intellectual or mental disabilities often raise broader concerns among advocacy groups about safeguarding, reporting barriers, and access to justice. Experts have long noted that survivors with disabilities can face additional obstacles when seeking help, including dependence on family networks, fear of retaliation, and communication challenges.
Police said their investigation remains ongoing and more details may emerge as the case proceeds through the legal system.
