Supreme Court Highlights Police Reluctance in Ghaziabad Minor’s Rape and Murder Case

Concerns Over FIR Filing and Investigation

The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns regarding the “reluctance” shown by the Ghaziabad police in filing a First Information Report (FIR) and progressing with the investigation into the rape and murder of a four-year-old girl. This statement was made during a court hearing on Monday, as the bench comprised Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. The police faced criticism for their handling of the case, which has attracted significant public attention.

During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, who represented the police, informed the court that a chargesheet was filed on April 3 under the enhanced sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Bhati also mentioned that the court had acknowledged this chargesheet, which has now put the authorities under scrutiny for their prior inaction.

Directions Issued to Police and Hospitals

The Supreme Court has ordered the police to provide a copy of the chargesheet to the family of the victim. In addition, the court directed two private hospitals, which allegedly refused necessary treatment to the child following her injury, to submit affidavits addressing the allegations against them.

Chief Justice Surya Kant expressed grave concern regarding the police’s approach, stating, “There was reluctance in lodging FIR, reluctance in investigation, everything.” This sentiment reflects the court’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served in a case marked by severe allegations of negligence and insensitivity.

Background of the Case

The horrific incident reportedly took place on March 16 when the girl was lured from her home by a neighbor with the promise of chocolates. Her father began searching for her after she failed to return, only to find her unconscious and covered in blood. This chain of events has prompted serious questions about the response of local authorities and healthcare providers at critical moments.

On the day of the hearing, the Supreme Court noted that the Ghaziabad police had submitted a status report regarding the investigation. Senior Advocate N Hariharan, representing the victim’s father, argued in court that there seems to be an attempt to protect the involved hospitals. He stated that the child’s death could potentially have been avoided had medical intervention been provided promptly.

Legal Arguments Presented

During the proceedings, Advocate Hariharan emphasized that the Supreme Court has consistently maintained that medical treatment should not be denied to anyone. He pointed out that statements recorded by the police indicated the child was not breathing, but video evidence appeared to contradict this claim. The timeline of the case was also scrutinized, with the FIR not being lodged until 3:30 AM on March 17, which was a significant delay after the incident.

The Supreme Court bench indicated that, upon reviewing the chargesheet, the petitioner could raise any concerns regarding potential gaps in the investigation that might warrant the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Consequently, the court has scheduled the matter for a follow-up hearing next week to further explore the issues raised in the case and ensure thorough oversight in the justice process.