In a startling revelation, a sitting MLA has become the victim of a shocking extortion scheme that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. On December 2, 2024, the Crime Branch registered a case under Crime No. 128/2024, citing serious violations of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.
The complainant, a prominent MLA, reported that prior to December 5, 2023, he was targeted by Kukesh Rauta, a resident of Hindala, Odisha. Rauta allegedly used social media to connect with the MLA and, during a video call, recorded explicit material without consent. He then morphed the footage to create compromising content featuring the MLA alongside a woman, which he threatened to release unless he received a staggering ₹5 crore.
Under duress, the MLA transferred ₹55,000 to Rauta’s bank account. The accused reportedly extorted a total of ₹5 lakh from the legislator before his arrest. Authorities have confirmed that Rauta is now in police custody as investigations continue into this alarming case of digital blackmail.
The Crime Branch is actively pursuing leads in this case, highlighting the serious implications of cybercrime and extortion tactics that threaten public figures. This incident raises significant concerns about privacy and security in the digital age, as well as the lengths to which individuals might go for financial gain.
