Observing alleged mishandling of a rape case investigation, the Aurangabad bench of the Bombay High Court has intervened. The bench has directed the Superintendent of Police (SP) to personally oversee the investigation, citing concerns about the Investigating Officer’s (IO) unresponsive demeanor and possible ulterior intentions.
The case involves a victim who reported a gang rape in January 2023. However, the offense of rape was not initially included in the police report, raising suspicions about the IO’s conduct. Advocate Bhushan Mahajan, representing the victim, highlighted discrepancies and delays in the probe, prompting the court’s intervention.
The bench noted that despite strong evidence, including medical records and witness statements, the IO has remained unresponsive to allegations against him. The court also expressed concern that the public prosecutor lacked proper instructions on how to proceed with the case, indicating potential interference in the investigation.
A chargesheet has been filed in the case, but none of the accused have been arrested. The 11 accused have reportedly obtained temporary bail from the Sessions Court, but the IO has not provided clear instructions on contesting these bail proceedings. The court observed that these circumstances raise concerns about the integrity of the investigation.
In response, the bench has directed the Superintendent of Police to personally examine the allegations, review the charge-sheet, and take appropriate action, including the potential replacement of the IO. The bench has also emphasized the need for a female officer of at least the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police to be assigned to the probe.
