A 45-year-old cancer patient was allegedly assaulted and sexually abused by police personnel in Haryana's Kurukshetra district, prompting the suspension of three police officers and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), officials said on Saturday.
Incident Details
The victim, a resident of Kurukshetra, was taken into custody on Thursday night for allegedly creating a ruckus at a local market. According to the complaint filed by the victim's family, the accused police personnel mocked his illness and later committed an unnatural sexual act at the police station.
The complainant stated that the victim, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, was picked up from his home and brought to the police station. There, he was allegedly beaten and subjected to sexual abuse. The family alleged that the police personnel also demanded a bribe for his release.
Police Response and Suspensions
Following the complaint, Kurukshetra Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Kumar ordered an immediate inquiry. "Three police personnel have been placed under suspension pending a detailed investigation. We have also registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, though the victim is an adult, due to the nature of the crime," the SP said.
The suspended officers have been identified as Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Ram Niwas, Head Constable Satbir, and Constable Deepak. They have been attached to the police lines pending further action.
SIT Formation and Legal Action
The Haryana Police has constituted an SIT led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rakesh Kumar to investigate the matter. The SIT has been directed to submit a report within three days. "We have taken the case very seriously. The SIT will collect evidence, record statements, and ensure that the guilty are punished," said SP Kumar.
The victim was produced before a local court on Friday and later sent to a hospital for medical examination. His condition is reported to be stable. The family has demanded strict action against the accused and compensation from the state government.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage among local political leaders. Congress leader and former MLA from Kurukshetra, Pradeep Chaudhary, condemned the attack and demanded a CBI probe. "This is a heinous crime. A cancer patient was tortured and sexually abused by those who are supposed to protect him. The state government must ensure justice," he said.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana has also distanced itself from the incident, with state spokesperson Rajiv Jain saying, "The police department has taken swift action. We expect a fair investigation and strict punishment."
According to National Crime Records Bureau data, Haryana reported 2,456 cases of sexual assault in 2024, a 12% increase from the previous year. The state has been under scrutiny for its handling of sexual violence cases.
