In a shocking revelation, the Karad Rural Police have exposed a grievous crime in Tembu, a village in Karad district, where a woman allegedly masqueraded an ashram school as a front for forcing destitute women and girls into prostitution. This disturbing operation has been ongoing for an unknown period and was recently brought to light following a focused police investigation.
Two Suspects Arrested in Connection with Trafficking
A report published in the Free Press Journal mentioned that as part of the ongoing inquiry, the police have arrested two suspects: Valmik Mahadev Mane, from Mhasoli in Karad district, and another woman whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons. Both suspects were arraigned before a First Class Magistrate and have been placed in police custody until August 23 to allow for a thorough investigation.
Raid Reveals Extent of Exploitation
The case came into the spotlight after reports surfaced of coercion at the Tembu orphanage, where women and girls seeking refuge were being exploited under the guise of shelter. The police conducted a raid, prompted by increasing societal unrest due to recent national incidents of violence, confirming the horrific extent of exploitation. During their intervention, police heard from a victim from Lonand, who was tragically forced into prostitution shortly after seeking asylum at the ashram following her husband's death.
Ongoing Investigation and Efforts to Protect Victims
Further investigations have indicated a pattern of similar abuses inflicted upon other women at the orphanage. The police are expanding their investigation to ascertain the involvement of additional perpetrators. In a poignant discovery during the raid, police also found an elderly woman and her granddaughter who had lived in the ashram for over ten years. They have since been relocated to the Ashakiran Women's Orphanage for their safety. The Karad Rural Police continue their diligent efforts to dismantle the trafficking network and ensure that justice is served for all victims.