Uttar Pradesh: NEET aspirant allegedly gang-raped in Chitrakoot's Devangana Valley
A 20-year-old NEET aspirant was allegedly gang-raped by three men posing as forest department officials in Chitrakoot's Devangana Valley, Uttar Pradesh, after they restrained her companion.
Jul 23, 2026 | Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
What happened
A 20-year-old woman preparing for the NEET medical entrance exam was allegedly gang-raped by three men in Devangana Valley, a forested area around 12 km from Chitrakoot's district headquarters, police said. She had travelled to meet a 17-year-old friend, and the two were approached by men who claimed to be forest department officials.
What is alleged
According to the police complaint, the men questioned the couple, allegedly assaulted and tied up her companion with a cloth, and then dragged the woman into nearby bushes, where she was raped in turns. The accused fled the scene afterward.
What authorities say
Chitrakoot police registered a case based on the woman's complaint and have taken one suspect into custody. An investigation into the remaining accused is ongoing.
Why it matters
The case has drawn attention to attacks by men impersonating officials to gain a victim's trust in isolated areas, and renewed concern over the safety of women travelling to meet people they know only from online.
What happens next
Police are continuing to search for the remaining suspects. This story will be updated as the investigation and any court proceedings develop.
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