Shimla, Sept 25,
The Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Women has taken serious notice of allegations that a young HAS (Himachal Administrative Service) officer serving as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Una district raped a woman under the pretext of marriage. Commission chairperson Vidya Devi said on Thursday that she had called the Superintendent of Police, Una, and directed him to ensure a fair and impartial investigation. The SP assured her that legal action would be taken and the accused would not be spared under any circumstances.
According to the FIR lodged by the complainant, she came into contact with the SDM, identified as Vishva Mohan Dev Chauhan, through social media. She alleged that he invited her on multiple occasions to his office to “discuss sports promotion†and on August 10, he showed her around his office, chamber, and courtroom, proposing marriage. When she resisted, she alleged that he forcibly had sexual intercourse in his cabin. About ten days later, she said he booked a room under a false name at the Una Rest House and repeated the assault. She also claimed that he recorded the first act secretly and threatened her with the video, using it to intimidate her when she tried to resist or speak up. On September 17, she reported seeing an Audi with Haryana registration following her, a vehicle she claims she had seen with the SDM. The complainant also alleged that attempts were made to pressure her into withdrawing earlier complaints. The FIR has been registered at Una Sadar Police Station under relevant sections for rape, criminal intimidation, and sexual intercourse by deceitful means.
The Una police confirmed that the case is under investigation, while the accused officer is reportedly missing and is said to have gone underground since the complaint surfaced. The State Women’s Commission chief emphasized that accountability among public servants must be strict and assured the victim that the Commission is closely monitoring the investigation.
Now, with the accused reportedly absconding, the effectiveness and transparency of the investigation will be closely watched, including forensic evidence, digital data, and corroborating testimony. The role of the women’s commission and civil society remains critical in ensuring that the case proceeds with accountability and fairness.
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