Woman attacks step-father after enduring years of sexual abuse

Sumesh Rajan | March 27, 2025

Palghar, Maharashtra, India: In a shocking case of alleged sexual abuse and retaliation, a 24-year-old woman in Nalasopara, Palghar district, attacked her stepfather with a knife, reportedly severing his genitals and inflicting multiple injuries on his face and neck. The incident, which occurred on March 2, has sparked widespread debate after a video of the woman narrating her ordeal went viral on social media.

Years of Alleged Abuse Lead to Drastic Action

According to police reports, the woman had allegedly endured repeated sexual assault by her stepfather, Ramesh Bharati, for over two years. Despite informing her mother about the abuse, she allegedly received no support. On the day of the incident, Bharati attempted to force himself on her again. This time, she devised a plan to fight back.

She suggested engaging in a blindfolded encounter, which Bharati readily agreed to. Once he was blindfolded, the woman seized the opportunity to attack him with a knife, severing his genitals and stabbing him multiple times. Despite his injuries, Bharati managed to escape the house, but the enraged woman followed him onto the street and continued her assault.

Viral Video Sparks National Debate

A crowd gathered as the woman recounted the years of abuse she had endured. Bystanders attempted to intervene, urging her to drop the knife, which she eventually did before being taken into police custody. A video of the incident, showing Bharati lying in a pool of blood and the woman holding a knife, has rapidly spread on social media, fueling discussions about sexual violence, self-defence, and justice for survivors.

Legal Action and Investigation Underway

The injured stepfather was admitted to Shatabdi Hospital in Mumbai, where he remains in critical condition. Authorities from Tulinj Police Station have confirmed that an FIR has been filed against Bharati under charges of sexual assault. The woman has also been booked for attempted murder.

The case has drawn national attention in India, highlighting issues of sexual violence, victim rights, and the legal implications of extreme acts of self-defence. Further investigations are on-going, and legal proceedings will determine the next course of action.