Teen jumps into well to escape rape bid by forest guard

Jaipur: A 17-year-old girl jumped into a well to escape an alleged rape attempt by a forest guard in Sawai Madhopur district Monday morning, triggering protests from villagers who severely beat the accused man.

The incident occurred in Phalodi range of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve when the minor was walking near her home. According to family members, forest guard Mukesh Gurjar, stationed at Kali Bhat Nakka of the tiger reserve, allegedly attempted to sexually assault the girl. Despite her screams for help, the terrified teenager jumped into a well before her relatives could reach her.

The girl was successfully rescued and rushed to the district hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, enraged villagers attacked Gurjar, leaving him critically injured. He was initially treated at the local district hospital but was later transferred to Jaipur due to his deteriorating condition.

Police have registered a case against the accused under multiple sections, including the SC/ST Act and POCSO Act with rape charges at the Ravajana Dungar police station. "We have registered the case and investigations are ongoing," confirmed SHO Hariman.

Agriculture minister Dr Kirodi Lal Meena visited the survivor and her family at the district hospital. The minister also spoke with the accused's wife, who reported the severity of the assault on her husband by villagers.

The girl's family has demanded strict action against the guard, but the forest department is yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.