Pune: A 29-year-old woman’s persistent efforts to lodge a complaint alleging sexual assault and fraud finally bore fruit after she filed a petition in the High Court. Following court intervention, the Alankar Police promptly registered a Zero FIR under charges of rape, fraud, and other sections and transferred the case to the Wai Police Station for further investigation.

The woman had initially approached the police in February 2024, seeking to file a complaint against Harishchandra Shridhar Gogawale, a resident near Bharati Vidyapeeth. However, the police reportedly declined to register the complaint, citing jurisdictional issues.

Left with no other option, she sought legal recourse through advocates Yogesh Aher and Amol Raikar and filed a petition in the High Court on January 2. Within two days of the petition, the police registered the complaint.

Accusations Against the Accused

According to the complaint, the woman met Gogavale in 2017 while working in the Wai Taluka area. The accused allegedly promised to marry her and established a physical relationship with her. The woman became pregnant twice during this period and underwent abortions.

The complaint also alleges that the accused defrauded her of ₹20 lakh, claiming the money was needed to purchase a flat in her name. Subsequently, he mortgaged the purchase deed, causing further financial and emotional distress to the complainant.

What is a Zero FIR?

A Zero FIR allows a victim to lodge a complaint at any police station, irrespective of jurisdiction. Once registered, the case is transferred to the appropriate police station for further investigation. This provision ensures prompt action without delays caused by jurisdictional disputes.