Punjabi University Student Molested on Moving Bus on Patiala-Chandigarh Route; FIR Registered

A student of Punjabi University, Patiala, has alleged that she was molested and sexually harassed by an unidentified youth while travelling on a moving bus from Patiala to Chandigarh. The incident, which reportedly occurred on April 23, came to light after the Chandigarh Police informed their Patiala counterparts.

Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Patiala (Rural) police station registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Wednesday under Sections 74, 75(1), and 351(2)(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Following the student’s complaint, the Chandigarh (North) Police Station had registered a Zero FIR against an unknown person on April 24. The case was subsequently transferred to the Patiala police for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the accused boarded the bus at the Patiala New Bus Stand and disembarked in Bahadurgarh town. Police officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify the specific bus involved in the incident. Efforts are also underway to record statements from the bus conductor and driver.

Authorities are examining CCTV footage obtained from the Patiala bus stand and collecting technical evidence to aid in tracing and apprehending the alleged perpetrator. The university administration has been informed of the incident.

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which came into effect on July 1, 2024, replaced the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The sections cited in the FIR pertain to various aspects of assault and sexual offenses.

The incident highlights concerns regarding the safety of public transport, particularly for women, on inter-city routes. Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in identifying the accused to come forward.

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