PM Modi Demands Strictest Action in Varanasi Gang Rape Case; 9 Accused in Custody, 14 at Large

Varanasi, April 11:Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Varanasi on Friday, directed officials to take the strictest possible action against the accused in the shocking gang rape case that has rocked the city. Immediately upon his arrival, the Prime Minister was briefed by the Police Commissioner, Divisional Commissioner, and District Magistrate regarding the incident and the status of the investigation.

The brutal crime came to light on April 4, when the victim was found unconscious. According to the police, the girl was allegedly lured and held captive, then raped by 23 men over a span of seven days. So far, nine accused have been arrested and sent to judicial custody by the District and Sessions Court, while efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining suspects. The case has been registered at the Lalpur Pandeypur police station under relevant sections of the law.

Condemning the incident, Prime Minister Modi instructed authorities to ensure swift justice and implement stronger preventive mechanisms to curb such heinous crimes in the future.

Meanwhile, in line with his commitment to infrastructure and public welfare, PM Modi launched and inaugurated developmental projects worth over ₹3,000 crore across Varanasi and nearby districts.

Key projects include:

• Inauguration and foundation stone laying for major road connectivity works, including a new bridge connecting Varanasi Ring Road to Sarnath, flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih, and a highway underpass at Varanasi International Airport (₹980+ crore).

• Expansion of power infrastructure, with two 400 KV and one 220 KV substations in Jaunpur, Chandauli, and Ghazipur districts inaugurated, and additional projects worth over ₹1,800 crore launched.

• Improvement of police facilities, including a new Transit Hostel, PAC barracks, and administrative buildings across multiple police stations.

• Educational upliftment, with inauguration of Government Polytechnic College in Pindra, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel College in Barki, and foundation stones for 77 renovated primary schools and 100 Anganwadi centres.

• Promotion of sports, through the foundation of a synthetic hockey turf at Uday Pratap College and a mini stadium at Shivpur.

• Urban beautification and public welfare projects, including redevelopment of Samne Ghat and Shastri Ghat, enhancement of six municipal wards, and 130 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

CM Yogi Adityanath was also present in Varanasi to review the preparations and accompany the Prime Minister during the public engagements.

As Varanasi grapples with the aftermath of a horrifying crime, the day saw both a stern message from the country’s top leadership on justice and a strong push for regional development.