MUMBAI - Bollywood actor Shiney Ahuja, who was arrested in Mumbai for allegedly raping his domestic maid, has been sent to police custody till June 18.

The actor has been charged under Indian Penal Code (IPC) section 376 with rape, along with wrongful restraint and intimidation.

Reports said that Ahuja was arrested after preliminary medical tests confirmed that he had raped his 18-year-old domestic help. He had also threatened to kill her.

The maid filed a case with Mumbai’s Oshiwara police last night according to which the actor gagged and raped her while they were alone in his house on June 14 in the absence of his wife and child.

The actor, who is known for his roles films like ‘Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi’ and ‘Gangster’, was due to be taken into court later today. Heavy police presence is expected outside court since the incident has generated a lot of media and public curiosity.

Under Section 376 a rape convict shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term, which shall not be less than seven years. The accused could also be punished for life or for a term, which may extend to ten years. The accused may also be liable to fine unless the woman raped is his own wife and is not under twelve years of age. (ANI)