Bangalore: Rape accused French diplomat likely to be arrested soon

Bangalore: The French diplomat accused of raping his three-and-a-half-year-old daughter now faces arrest. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that the diplomat does not enjoy any immunity, thus clearing the way for his arrest.

The French Consulate too came out with a statement on Monday saying, "A complaint has been lodged regarding the rape of a minor girl who is a French National. The complaint names the father of the child, who is a Consular agent of this Consulate-General. An investigation is underway for which this Consulate General is extending its full cooperation with the police and the authorities in charge. It remains also in touch with the family of the child."

Sources say that the French Consulate officials are likely to come to Bangalore to assist in the probe.

Meanwhile, child welfare activists protested outside the French Consulate in Bangalore on Monday, demanding immediate arrest of the accused. Many of them were detained.

Sources say that the MEA's note is now being sent to the Bangalore police so that they can take requisite action.

Jyothiprakash Mirji, Bangalore Police Commissioner, said, "As soon as we get directions from the government of Karnataka or the government of India, we will proceed further. I am told we will get the directions today."

The Bangalore Police are also awaiting a forensic report on DNA samples as it could help strengthen the case.

(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest)