Nagpur-based psychologist arrested for sexually assaulting students for over 15 years

A psychologist has been arrested on charges of blackmailing and sexually abusing at least 50 students for over 15 years.

According to PTI, the psychologist was running a clinic and residential program in East Nagpur. He has been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act and the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, said an officer of Hudkeshwar police station.

The accused lured students, especially girls, with promises of personal and professional development. He organized camps in which he sexually abused them, took explicit photos, and later used them to blackmail them. The incident finally came to light when the former student decided to go to the police after being blackmailed by the psychologist.

According to The Times Of India, the psychologist is currently lodged in Nagpur Central Jail.

The report shows that he drank alcohol at picnics before attacking the young girls. He is also suspected of giving drugs to the victims. He stayed with students during long-distance trips. The accused advisor was lodged in camps in various regions of Vidarbha, including Chandrapur, Bhandara and Gondia.

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He urged parents to enroll their children in his institution for personality nurturing and development, promising to cultivate skills necessary to face academic, personal and professional challenges such as interpersonal development, work and time management. According to TOI, he especially encouraged parents to send their daughters to his internship program. The accused allegedly convinced the parents to become the students’ “local guardian” and represent them in schools and colleges.

His wife, a student, and another friend were also punished for helping enroll girls in his institute and are absconding.

According to TOI, a Hudkeshwar police officer said that several of the victims are married and may be hesitant to approach the police to lodge a complaint. The police have formed a special committee to help victims and ensure a thorough investigation.