In Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich district, a madrassa cleric named Salman has been arrested for allegedly attempting to rape a young female student at Madrassa Darul Uloom Gulshan-e-Syed Mehboob Ashraf in Ranjitbojha village near Rupaidiha. The incident occurred on December 12, when the cleric lured the girl to the premises under the pretense of cleaning duties. Once isolated, he locked her in a room and tried to force himself upon her, police reports confirm.

Terrified, the cleric threatened to kill the student if she revealed the assault to anyone, including police or family. The girl endured the trauma in silence for a full week, haunted by fear. She finally confided in her mother, prompting the family to rush to Bahraich police station with a formal complaint on December 19.

Police acted swiftly upon receiving the FIR, apprehending Salman without delay. The victim underwent a thorough medical examination to document injuries and collect evidence. Investigators are now questioning other female students at the madrassa to check for additional victims or similar patterns of abuse.

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The girl's family demands the strictest possible punishment, including fast-track justice under relevant POCSO provisions. They expressed outrage over the betrayal by a figure of religious authority meant to protect and educate children. Local authorities have assured comprehensive support, including counseling for the survivor.

This isn't the madrassa's first brush with scandal. It previously drew police scrutiny for alleged black magic practices, where amulets, talismans, and witchcraft items were seized during a raid. Operators received warnings, and part of the building was demolished via bulldozer action.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety in religious institutions, especially for vulnerable minors. Bahraich SP confirmed the investigation's priority, vowing no leniency. As details emerge, the community watches closely for justice.

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