MPCC criticises BJP over rape accused singer Ankit Tiwar's performance at Mumbai Police event

The performance of playback singer Ankit Tiwari, who was arrested on rape charges, at an annual Mumbai Police event has exposed the double face of the ruling BJP, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee said on Monday.

"Nothing more can be expected from the BJP, which spoke of sensitivity towards crime against women and strong action against rape accused, during elections.

"Even at the Centre, the BJP has refused to take action against a rape accused minister (apparently referring to chemicals and fertilisers minister Nihalchand Meghwal)," MPCC spokesman Sachin Sawant said.

Such instances have exposed the real face of the BJP, he said.

On Saturday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and thousands of policemen, including Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria, attended 'Umang 2015' show where Bollywood stars performed for the men and women in uniform.

Tiwari, along with his co-performer, sung a number from soon-to-be released horror flick 'Alone' for the audience at the Andheri Sports Complex.

Fadnavis, however, had left the venue by the time Ankit arrived on the stage.

The 25-year-old singer was arrested in May last year for allegedly raping his girlfriend on several occasions, after promising to marry her.

Ankit's brother Ankur had also been arrested for allegedly threatening the victim with dire consequences if she made the sexual assault public.

Tiwari was booked under sections 376 (rape) and 506(2) (criminal intimidation) of the IPC, while his brother was charged with criminal intimidation. Both are currently out on bail.