In a distressing incident, New Delhi police have apprehended three individuals in connection with the rape and assault of two gay men, identified as ‘A’ and ‘C’ to protect their identities, in a public park. This horrifying ordeal unfolded when the couple, who live together with a third gay man known as ‘B’, encountered one of their attackers through a gay dating app. The meeting with the individual, referred to as ‘X’, occurred as the couple was returning home from a fair in east Delhi’s Shakarpur area late at night on Tuesday, October 17th.
Accompanied by two other men, ‘X’ and his companions led A and C to a nearby park. During their time in the park, two more associates of ‘X’ appeared, and a brutal attack ensued, with all five men subjecting A and C to rape and assault, according to local law enforcement.
Upon returning home, A and C confided in their flatmate, ‘B’, who promptly contacted the police to report the heinous incident. Responding swiftly, New Delhi police mobilized a team of 20 officers who meticulously reviewed CCTV footage from over 50 cameras in the vicinity to identify the assailants. Additionally, they interviewed local LGBTQ+ community members in their efforts to locate the remaining two suspects, who are still at large.
The incident underscores the persistently high rates of sexual violence in India, ranking as the fourth most common crime committed against women in the country, with an alarming average of 86 reported incidents daily in 2021. The assault on ‘A’ and ‘C’ serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for greater awareness, protection, and justice for LGBTQ+ individuals in India’s society.
The arrest of three suspects brings a glimmer of hope for justice, but it is a stark reminder of the systemic issues that continue to plague marginalized communities in India, especially the LGBTQ+ community. Heightened vigilance and efforts to combat sexual violence are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.