Amethi:
A woman was allegedly gang-raped by some persons over a land dispute in Gauriganj area in Amethi, police said today.
Hariram, a resident of Dihwa village in Uttar Pradesh, was involved in a land dispute with some people. His wife was yesterday allegedly beaten up by rival group members following a heated argument over the issue. A friend of Hariram's wife, who came to her rescue, was forcibly taken inside a house and allegedly gang-raped by them, police said.
"The victim alleged that some persons assaulted and later gang-raped her in a house yesterday," IG (Law and Order) Amrendra Sengar told reporters in Lucknow.
Mr Sengar said that a case has been lodged against three persons in this regard, but no arrest has been made so far.
"Both the parties were brought to the police station for questioning," Mr Sengar said.
Congress vice-president and MP from Amethi, Rahul Gandhi issued a statement today condemning the incident. "I am extremely saddened to learn of an alleged rape incident in Amethi. The matter is under investigation. We are closely monitoring the situation and following up with the district administration to ensure that all the facts come to light and justice is meted out quickly."
"We must take all necessary steps to improve law and order to ensure safety and security for women. But changing mindsets is a major challenge and one that we must address urgently," added Mr Gandhi.
Meanwhile, Amethi District Magistrate Jagatraj Tripathi and SP Heeralal said that in initial investigation the incident was not confirmed, but legal action and inquiry would continue.