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Delhi HC Acquits Four Men in Abduction and Gang-Rape Case, Citing Investigation Flaws

Delhi HC Acquits Four Men in Abduction and Gang-Rape Case, Citing Investigation Flaws

The Delhi High Court has acquitted four men who were sentenced to life imprisonment by a trial court for allegedly abducting and gang-raping a woman in 2018. The high court cited significant flaws in the investigation and lack of substantial evidence.

Key Points of the Judgment:

  • Appeal Allowed: The high court allowed the appeal filed by the four men, overturning the trial court’s decision. The court noted that neither the woman nor her parents made any incriminating statements against the accused.
  • Inconsistent Statements: The court highlighted that the woman initially accused the men of abduction and rape but later, before the magistrate, stated she left home voluntarily. She maintained this version during her testimony.
  • Lack of Evidence: The prosecution’s case lacked sufficient material evidence. The woman acknowledged signing various documents but claimed her complaint was made under parental influence.
  • Investigation Gaps: The court criticized the police for not collecting call detail records (CDR) of the woman’s mobile, which could have provided crucial information. The absence of such evidence was seen as detrimental to the prosecution’s case.
  • DNA Report: Although the DNA report indicated the presence of the accused’s DNA on the victim’s clothing, the court noted that the woman was an adult at the time, and her silence on the matter during the trial diminished the report’s impact.
  • Verdict: Justices Suresh Kumar Kait and Manoj Jain concluded that the investigation was inadequate. The DNA evidence, not addressed under Section 313 CrPC, was insufficient to prove the charges without the victim’s corroboration. The court, therefore, acquitted all four accused.

This verdict underscores the importance of thorough investigation and substantial evidence in securing convictions, especially in serious cases like abduction and sexual assault.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s decision to acquit the four men reflects serious concerns about the investigation process and the necessity for reliable evidence in criminal cases. This case serves as a reminder of the judicial system’s duty to ensure justice through meticulous and unbiased proceedings.

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