An auto-rickshaw driver has been arrested in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh after he filmed a woman being raped on a busy footpath in broad daylight, India Today reported.

Police have recovered the mobile phone used by the accused and have found the recorded video on it.

Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma stated that authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether the suspect recorded the video as part of a conspiracy. Police are also gathering information about individuals with whom the accused shared the video and those who may have circulated it further.

SP Sharma emphasised that they are working to clarify the motives behind the accused’s actions, particularly the intention behind making the video viral.

Authorities have filed additional charges against the auto-rickshaw driver. The accused faces charges under Sections 72, 77, and 294 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, as well as the IT Act and the Indecent Representation of Women Act, according to Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has condemned the horrific crime and vowed to take strict action against all involved.

The incident took place on September 4, when a woman was assaulted on a busy road in Ujjain. Instead of intervening, bystanders filmed the attack and shared the video on social media, where it quickly gained traction.

The assault occurred in the Koyla Phatak area, a bustling intersection in the city. The perpetrator, identified as Lokesh, was later arrested. According to police reports, the survivor, a ragpicker, had met Lokesh in the area. He lured her with promises of marriage and persuaded her to accompany him. Once she was intoxicated after consuming alcohol, he took her to a roadside shelter and raped her.