Chemical attack case: Police file chargesheet

Dadar police Thursday filed a 110-page chargesheet against film production studio owner Jerrit John (46), who allegedly threw a corrosive chemical on a former physiotherapist last year. The chargesheet includes statements of 33 witnesses, including that of the 26-year-old victim and her friends.

Police said victim Arayanka Hosbetkar's six friends stood witness to the case and provided crucial depositions against John.

According to police, Hosbetkar met John when she joined a bicycling group, and the two soon became friends. After having dated for over 10 months, she found out that John was married and called the relationship off. She severed all ties with him, police said.

According to the chargesheet, on November 10, 2012, Hosbetkar had just returned home from a cycling trip with friends, when John came over and dragged her down the stairs from her first-floor apartment in Worli. He then threw a chemical on her face, while her shocked mother and friends watched.

"All witnesses have supported the victim's claims," said Bharat Bhoite, investigating officer.

Besides eyewitness statements, police also included the medical report of the victim as part of the chargesheet. According to the police, a supplementary chargesheet on a forensic report that is awaited will be filed eventually.

Hosbetkar, who earlier worked as a physiotherapist, is an international-level cyclist. She is still undergoing treatment.

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