All About Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Case That Inspired 'Bhakshak'

Upcoming thriller film, Bhakshak, starring Bhumi Pednekar and Aditya Srivastava in the lead roles, draws inspiration from the harrowing events of the Muzaffarpur Women's Shelter Case in 2020. In the film, Bhumi Pednekar portrays the protagonist, Vaishali, who embarks on a challenging journey to uncover the truth, even in the face of discouragement from those close to her. 

Inspired by true events. Bhakshak offers a glimpse into Vaishali's unwavering determination as she fights tirelessly to seek justice for the vulnerable young girls caught amid the scandal. Moreover, Aditya Srivastava portrays the character of Bansi Sahu, drawing parallels to Brajesh Thakur, the central figure in the real-life case.

Everything About Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Case That Inspired 'Bhakshak'

The case gained prominence when the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) submitted a report to the Bihar government on May 26, 2018, exposing allegations of sexual abuse against minor girls at the shelter home.

Prompt action followed, as on May 29, 2018, the Bihar government relocated the girls to alternate protective facilities. Subsequently, on May 31, 2018, an FIR was lodged against 11 individuals implicated in the scandal. The gravity of the situation prompted the Supreme Court to intervene, acknowledging the reported sexual assaults on over 30 minors. Consequently, on August 2, 2018, the case was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), underscoring the severity and complexity of the investigation.

At the heart of the scandal was Brajesh Thakur, a former Bihar People's Party (BPP) MLA and founder of the Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti NGO, which operated the shelter home. Thakur was found guilty of egregious crimes, including aggravated sexual assault and gang rape, under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. His conviction in a Delhi court in 2020 resulted in a life sentence, underscoring the heinous nature of the offences perpetrated under his watch.

Alongside Brajesh Thakur, 11 others were also sentenced to life imprisonment for their involvement in the physical and sexual abuse of numerous minor girls. The profound impact of the case continues to reverberate, serving as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of marginalised communities and the imperative for swift justice.

Bhakshak, helmed by director Pulkit and produced by Gauri Khan and Gaurav Verma under the Red Chillies Entertainment banner, brings this tragic narrative to the silver screen. Scheduled for release on February 9 on Netflix, the film seeks to shed light on the grim realities of institutional abuse and the quest for justice in the face of adversity.