Canteen Operator at Kanpur Hospital Ran Sex Racket Using Blackmail, Say Police; Nude Videos of 20 Girls Recovered

 KANPUR: The operator of a private hospital canteen in Naubasta is accused of raping a minor, creating nude videos of approximately 20 girls, and operating a sex racket by blackmailing them, police reported on Thursday.

The incident came to light when the father of a 14-year-old victim caught the accused, identified as Keshav Uttam, a resident of Fatehpur Jahanabad, forcibly taking his daughter. Upon confronting him, a scuffle ensued during which the accused's mobile phone fell to the ground.

The victim, who knew the phone's password, unlocked the device. Her father was horrified to find her nude video stored on it, alongside explicit photos and videos of numerous other young women.

According to the police complaint, the accused had lured the minor to the hospital on a pretext months ago, where he allegedly raped her and recorded the assault. He then used the video to blackmail and repeatedly assault her, threatening to leak the footage.

A preliminary investigation of the mobile also revealed audios and WhatsApp chats suggesting the operation of an organised sex racket. In these exchanges, individuals are allegedly heard demanding specific girls from the accused.

Based on the father's complaint, the Naubasta police have registered an FIR against Keshav Uttam under relevant sections, including molestation, assault, hostage-taking, and the stringent POCSO Act. Two police teams have been formed to apprehend the accused, who is currently absconding.

DCP South, Dipendra Nath Chaudhary, confirmed the case and stated that efforts are underway to contact the other victims whose videos were found on the phone. Further complaints are expected to be registered.