Gujarat High Court Orders Independent Probe into Minor’s Alleged Rape and Death

The Gujarat High Court issued notice on a petition seeking an independent investigation into the alleged rape and death of a 17-year-old girl from Rajasthan. The minor had moved to Gujarat to work as a labourer.

Court Directions

Justice MR Mengdey directed that the investigation be handed to the Deputy Superintendent of Police (SDPO) Mehsana and monitored by the Superintendent of Police (SP), Patan. The Investigating Officer must submit a report to the High Court, and the SP must file an affidavit.

Petitioner’s Allegations

The girl’s father alleged that the minor was brought to Unjha, Gujarat, by a labour contractor and claimed that her death involved criminal culpability. He requested that the investigation be conducted independently and under judicial supervision.

State’s Response

The State’s counsel stated that the initial investigation treated the death as accidental, and the allegations were raised only when the petition was filed. The court cited Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing that police authorities are obliged to register FIRs in cognizable offences.

Court Observations

The court noted the vulnerability of the minor, her tribal background, and the distance traveled for work, highlighting the need for independent investigation. The SP and SDPO were tasked with overseeing the investigation until the next court hearing.

• Minor girl, Rajasthan, allegedly raped and died in Gujarat.

• Petition seeks investigation independent of Unjha police.

• Court directs SDPO Mehsana to investigate, monitored by SP Patan.

• FIR registration mandatory for cognizable offences (Lalita Kumari case).