SRINAGAR: A Fast Track Court in Jammu has acquitted a man who spent more than 19 months in prison in connection with a rape case, observing that the allegations against him remained unsubstantiated and that the investigation was seriously flawed.
The judgment was delivered by Amarjeet Singh Langeh, who held that there was no credible evidence on record to establish that the alleged offence had taken place. The court described the prosecution’s case as “highly improbable” and unsupported by facts.
The accused remained in custody for one year, seven months and 11 days before being acquitted of all charges. The court highlighted major contradictions in the prosecution’s case, including the absence of corroborative medical evidence, an unexplained delay in lodging the FIR, and the failure of investigators to collect essential material evidence.
The judgment noted that despite allegations of repeated sexual assault, the medical examination conducted shortly after registration of the case revealed no signs of force, injury or recent sexual activity.
Criticising the investigation, the court observed that crucial evidence had been overlooked, CCTV footage was not properly analysed, key witnesses were not examined, and the probe appeared to have been conducted in a careless and manipulated manner.
Taking serious note of these lapses, the court directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu, to initiate a departmental inquiry against the Investigating Officer (IO) and the then Station House Officer (SHO) associated with the case.
The court also directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jammu, to initiate legal proceedings against the complainant for allegedly furnishing false information. In addition, an inquiry was ordered into the role of two persons who allegedly facilitated the registration of the case, with criminal action to follow if any misconduct is established.
The prosecution was represented by advocate Ajay Dogra, while advocate Anil Sharma appeared for the accused. (KNC)
