RK Singh jail superintendent of the Mainpuri jail, told Agratoday.in, "Rajeev was attacked and in critical condition admitted to the Agra hospital. This morning he has been shifted to the general ward. The DIG visited the jail and an inquiry is underway."

The jail authorities said Rajeev had out of guilt committed the folly himself, but added that an inquiry was on.

However, Babloo Yadav, Rajeev's cousin told Agratoday.in, "how is it possible when they do not permit any one with anything inside the jail premises, not even blades or knives. He was attacked by some people within the jail.

Rajeev was challaned by Karhal thana some days ago for his alleged involvement with a girl. Those people had warned him then of dire consequences. In the Mainpuri jail, he was tied to a tree and his private parts cut. He was beaten up."

Rajeev was preparing for some competitive exams and was in Lucknow for recruitment to the police, his cousin said.

Doctors at the SN Medical College said Rajeev was out of danger but would take a long time to be normal, physically and mentally.

His family members have denied his involvement with any girl and said he was in Lucknow for an examination, but the Karhal thana police challaned him for running away with a girl.

Human rights activists Naresh Paras, Ved Gautam and others have demanded compensation for the victim. "He has lost his future and will to live. Who is responsible? Stern action should be taken against the perpetrators of the crime."