2025 Varanasi Gang Rape of a 19-Year-Old Woman

In February 2025, a 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly gang-raped by five men in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The survivor was assaulted in a secluded area, and the crime came to light after she lodged a complaint. The accused included Ankit Singh, son of a police head constable, along with four others. Public outrage intensified over allegations of initial police inaction and caste-based violence. All five suspects were arrested, and medical evidence confirmed the assault. The case was registered under IPC Section 376D (gang rape) and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The survivor received state compensation and protection, while authorities vowed a speedy trial.

As of late 2025, the trial remained ongoing. Charges had been framed against all five accused, who were held in judicial custody. The case attracted demands for a fast-track trial, but no final verdict had been delivered.

Allegations of delayed police registration and reluctance due to the involvement of a policeman’s son; the intersection of caste discrimination with sexual violence against a Dalit woman; concerns over witness protection, evidence handling, and ensuring an impartial investigation free from local influence.

The case sparked widespread protests by women’s rights groups and Dalit organizations across Uttar Pradesh. It reignited a national debate on women’s safety, police accountability, and atrocities against marginalized castes. Civil society demanded systemic reforms, expedited justice, and stricter enforcement of protection laws. The incident also placed pressure on the state government to address both caste and gender-based violence.