The Jammu & Kashmir government has ordered the Crime Branch to investigate the alleged sexual assault and death of a tribal teenager in Kishtwar, amid allegations of a cover-up in the case. This decision follows protests across the district after claims of prolonged sexual abuse of the minor and a subsequent abortion attempt that preceded her death.
Investigation Details
Officials informed The Indian Express that the Crime Branch has begun the process of taking over the investigation from the Special Investigation Team currently handling the case. This shift comes after the arrest of at least six individuals, including a nurse and a sweeper at the Kishtwar district hospital, for their alleged complicity in the events leading to the girl's death. The arrested individuals also include the accused headmaster and three of his relatives.
The petition filed by the girl’s father states that she was seven months pregnant at the time of her death. He became aware of her pregnancy only after she was taken to a health center two weeks before her death. He alleged that the doctor at the facility refused to inform the police and instead directed him to do so. Being “unlettered” and “living much below the poverty line,” he claimed he was unaware of the necessary procedures.
