A complaint filed by a deaf and mute woman about a sexual assault that allegedly took place 16 years ago has led to the arrest of a man accused of repeatedly abusing and blackmailing women from the hearing- and speech-impaired community, police officials said.

Survivor comes forward after suicide attempt shock

The accused, Mahesh Pawar, was arrested on December 13 after the survivor recently shared her ordeal following the suicide attempt of another woman who was allegedly harassed by him. Police said the incident deeply disturbed the survivor, prompting her to speak about the assault that took place in 2009 when she was a minor.

According to investigators, the survivor, a resident of Mumbai’s western suburbs, communicated through sign language during a video call with friends and colleagues from a WhatsApp group, where she narrated the assault. The discussion led to her being encouraged to approach the police.

Assault, blackmail and years of silence

Police said the survivor alleged that Pawar drugged and raped her at his residence in Vakola, Santacruz, in July 2009. She stated that a female friend had invited her to explore the city and later took her to Pawar’s home under the pretext of a birthday celebration.

The accused allegedly forced her to consume a spiked beverage, after which the friend left. He is accused of sexually assaulting her and recording the act, later blackmailing her with the video to keep her silent.

Statement recorded with interpreter support

After informing her husband, the survivor, with assistance from members of the Thane Deaf Association and social activists, approached the police. Her statement was recorded in camera at the Kurar police station with the help of a sign language interpreter.

Pawar was arrested a few hours later from Virar in neighbouring Palghar district by the Mumbai Police.

Pattern of abuse under investigation

A senior police officer said the investigation revealed a disturbing pattern. Pawar allegedly targeted hearing- and speech-impaired women, drugged and assaulted them, recorded obscene videos, and used the footage to blackmail them into silence.

“He extorted money, gold and mobile phones, and even forced some women into nude video calls, which he recorded to threaten them,” the officer said. Investigators have found evidence related to seven victims so far, but believe the number could exceed 24.

Pawar has been remanded to judicial custody. Police said more survivors are expected to come forward, and further investigations are ongoing.