Television actor Ashish Kapoor has been arrested in Pune on charges of rape after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her at a house party in Delhi earlier in August. Police confirmed his arrest on Wednesday, stating that the case was registered in Delhi before teams tracked Kapoor’s movements across Goa and finally to Pune, where he was apprehended.
The complaint and shifting allegations
According to police, the complainant initially claimed that Kapoor, his friend who hosted the party, and two unidentified men had raped her while a woman physically assaulted her. However, she later revised her statement, alleging that Kapoor alone had raped her. Investigators confirmed that while she mentioned the incident was videographed, no such footage has been found so far.
An FIR was first filed on August 11 against Kapoor, his friend, the friend’s wife, and two unknown men. Later, on August 18, the woman altered her account, stating that Kapoor and his friend had raped her while the host’s wife assaulted her. Police said the case, originally registered as gangrape, will now be converted to rape against Kapoor alone.
Evidence and investigation
Officials revealed that CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts confirmed Kapoor and the complainant entering a washroom together and remaining inside for a prolonged period, raising concern among other guests. A heated argument reportedly followed, extending to the society’s gate, after which the host’s wife called the police control room.
Kapoor’s friend and his wife had earlier sought anticipatory bail on August 21, which was granted. The complainant, who was present at the hearing, did not include the friend’s name in her submissions, according to investigators.
Who is Ashish Kapoor?
Ashish Kapoor is a television actor who has appeared in multiple Hindi TV shows over the past decade. Known for his roles in family dramas and soap operas, Kapoor built a presence on social media platforms, where he often interacted with fans. Police noted that he first connected with the complainant on Instagram before inviting her to the Delhi party where the alleged incident took place.
What’s next?
Police have confirmed that legal procedures are being followed and Kapoor will face charges under provisions related to rape. The investigation is ongoing.
