KATHMANDU: Rajesh Ahiraj, also known as Rajesh Jha, former Chief of Madhesh Province, has filed a criminal case against the young woman who accused him of rape.

The case was registered on Wednesday at Kathmandu District Court.

Ahiraj alleges that he was extorted for 20 million Nepalese rupees through threats, including social defamation and even threats of suicide, after he refused to pay the demanded amount.

While the initial demand was 20 million, Ahiraj claims to have paid only 3 million rupees.

Following the rape complaint filed by the woman, Ahiraj also lodged a case against her on charges of criminal misconduct for illegal benefits.