New Delhi: It seems that the Bharatiya Janata Party is fully backing Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers Nihal Chand despite allegations of rape against him. According to sources, Nihal Chand explained his position to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday.

Sources say Rajnath is convinced of the defence being offered by Nihal Chand and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has briefed party spokespersons to back him.

Sources also suggest that these steps were taken after Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked senior ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad and Jaitley to examine the case papers.

The Opposition, meanwhile, continues its demand for Nihal Chand’s resignation. The case dates back to 2011, when the woman was allegedly sexually abused and exploited by 17 people, including Nihal Chand. All 17 have been issued a notice by a Jaipur court.

The alleged victim has accused the Union minister for trying to intimidate her into withdrawing the case and has also appealed to PM for justice. She said, “Since I was threatened, I have been really scared. I was offered monetary compensation and a job if I withdrew the case.”

Speaking to CNN-IBN, she said that she is being threatened to withdraw the case. “All the names I have complained against are very big people and they can do anything to save themselves. Nihal Chand and other powerful people are involved. My life is in danger,” the survivor told CNN-IBN.

 

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