Video: Roadshow for Ghaziabad rape accused after bail sparks outrage

A roadshow, allegedly organised in support of a rape accused, after his release from jail on bail has triggered controversy in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad, with videos of the celebration going viral on social media.

The accused, identified as Sushil Prajapati, a former city president of a Hindu Yuva Vahini unit, was welcomed by supporters outside the jail with garlands and slogans after securing bail nearly nine months after his arrest. Videos circulating online show supporters showering flowers on him and taking out a convoy of vehicles in a public show of strength. Police said they had taken cognisance of the viral videos and launched an enquiry into the matter.

According to police records, an LLB student from Modinagar had lodged a rape complaint against Prajapati at Muradnagar police station on August 8, 2025. In her complaint, the woman alleged that the accused had trapped her by promising to help her secure a chamber at the Ghaziabad court and assist her in legal practice. She told police that she had met Prajapati in November 2021 while pursuing law studies and training under a senior advocate at the Meerut court.

The woman alleged that Prajapati advised her to shift her practice to the Ghaziabad court and offered to make arrangements for her there. Under that pretext, he allegedly took her to a flat in a Thar SUV, where he mixed an intoxicating substance in a cold drink and raped her.

She further alleged that the accused threatened to have her killed if she disclosed the incident to anyone before abandoning her by the roadside and fleeing.

Following the registration of the FIR, police had announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for information leading to Prajapati’s arrest. He was arrested on August 11, 2025, and subsequently sent to jail.

Police said Prajapati was released on bail on Sunday, May 17, following which supporters gathered outside the jail and organised the celebratory procession that has now come under scrutiny.

The latest controversy has also revived memories of protests that erupted during his arrest last year, when supporters and members of some organisations had gathered at the Muradnagar police station and allegedly created a ruckus.

Senior police officer Surendra Nath Tiwari said the viral video had come to the notice of the police and necessary action would be taken after an investigation.

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