Pawan Mahato Seen Using Mobile and Eating in Hospital While Under Guard

A controversial incident unfolded at a Bilaspur medical college hospital when Pawan Mahato, accused of raping a widowed woman, was observed using a mobile phone and eating snacks in a special ward. Two police officers were assigned to keep him under watch, yet the suspect seemed to relax in an environment more akin to a VIP lounge.

Mahato, an employee of an Adani power plant, allegedly pretended to be interested in marriage to gain the trust of the victim before subjecting her to repeated sexual assault. The FIR filed on October 8 led to his arrest, and subsequent health concerns placed him under medical‑legal observation.

The decision to allocate a special ward rather than a general one has drawn criticism from legal experts and the public. Questions are being raised about the effectiveness of the guard detail and whether proper protocols were followed to prevent any misuse of hospital facilities.

According to CSP Chaturvedi, Mahato was not technically in custody at the time, which is why security personnel were deployed instead of a full arrest. He assured that any lapse by the guards will be investigated at the senior police level and that Mahato will face further legal action after discharge.

The case highlights the delicate balance between providing necessary medical care to an accused individual and maintaining strict security oversight.