A deaf-mute and mentally challenged woman was allegedly gang-raped in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, after being chased down by bike-borne men. The whole incident was captured on CCTV, which helped in the capture of the two suspects, the district police said on Wednesday (August 13, 2025).
The accused, Harshit Pandey and Ankur Verma, were arrested after an encounter with the Balrampur police and admitted to the crime during preliminary investigations. In the 16-second viral video, the woman, seemingly barefoot, is seen being chased down a dimly lit deserted road by men on motorcycles.
The incident became public after the woman’s brother lodged a complaint with the Kotwali Dehat police station in Balrampur two days ago, alleging that his deaf-mute and mentally challenged sister was raped.
“The route taken by the girl was thoroughly inspected, and CCTV footage helped identify suspects. Both were arrested following a police encounter and have admitted to the crime during preliminary interrogation,” said Vikas Kumar, Superintendent of Police (SP), Balrampur.
According to the complaint, the woman was returning home after visiting her maternal uncle when she was attacked. The police sent the victim for a medical examination, and she is currently undergoing treatment. “We are taking legal action as per law and taking the case very seriously. CCTV footage has been collected for evidence, and special teams have been formed to expedite the probe,” the SP added.
