In a significant judgment, a Fast Track Court in Jammu has acquitted a man who spent more than 19 months in jail in a rape case, observing that the allegations against him were not supported by credible evidence and that the investigation suffered from serious lapses.
The verdict was delivered by Amarjeet Singh Langeh, who noted that the prosecution had failed to establish the alleged offence. The court described the prosecution’s version of events as “highly improbable” and lacking factual support.
The accused remained behind bars for one year, seven months, and eleven days before being acquitted of all charges. The court highlighted several inconsistencies in the case, including the absence of corroborative medical evidence, an unexplained delay in filing the FIR, and the investigators’ failure to collect crucial material evidence.
According to the judgment, although repeated sexual assault was alleged, the medical examination conducted soon after the FIR was registered found no signs of force, injury, or recent sexual activity.
Expressing concern over the investigation, the court observed that key evidence had been ignored, CCTV footage was not properly examined, important witnesses were not questioned, and the probe appeared to have been carried out in a negligent and questionable manner.
Taking serious note of these deficiencies, 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 ordered the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jammu, to initiate legal action against the complainant for allegedly providing false information. In addition, an inquiry was directed into the role of two individuals who allegedly facilitated the registration of the case, with criminal proceedings to follow if any wrongdoing is established.
The prosecution was represented by advocate Ajay Dogra, while advocate Anil Sharma appeared on behalf of the accused.
