Chandigarh Court Accepts Police Cancellation Report in 2021 Rape Case Against Former JJP Leader
In a significant legal development, the district court in Chandigarh on Wednesday accepted a cancellation report filed by Chandigarh Police concerning the 2021 rape case registered against former JJP functionary Ramesh Godara. The court's decision came after a thorough review of the evidence, concluding that the allegations could not be substantiated based on the available record.
Background of the Case and Initial Allegations
The case originated from a complaint filed by a 33-year-old woman from Hisar, leading to the registration of an FIR at the Sector 3 police station in Chandigarh. The woman alleged that Godara brought her to Chandigarh under the pretext of medical treatment and subsequently raped her at the MLA Hostel in Sector 3. Further accusations included claims that the accused took objectionable photos and videos of her and took her to the residences of two other individuals in the city.
Police initially registered the FIR in Chandigarh based on a zero FIR that had been filed earlier in Hisar. The charges were framed under sections 376(2)(n) and 376(2)(f) of the Indian Penal Code, pertaining to rape, along with section 506 for criminal intimidation.
Court's Evaluation and Findings
During the hearing, the chief judicial magistrate (CJM) meticulously examined the evidence presented. The court noted that the complainant's allegations lacked support from any concrete evidence. Key documents reviewed included reports from MLA Hostel officials, statements from doctors in Kalka and Hisar, and other relevant materials. None of these were found to corroborate the claims made by the woman.
Additionally, the court referenced alleged chats between the complainant and the accused, which also failed to provide sufficient proof to uphold the allegations. In light of these findings, the court determined that no prima facie case could be established on record.
Outcome and Legal Implications
Given the absence of substantiating evidence, the court accepted the cancellation report filed by Chandigarh Police. This decision underscores the judiciary's reliance on verifiable proof in criminal cases, emphasizing that allegations must be backed by solid evidence to proceed legally. The case highlights the complexities involved in such sensitive matters and the importance of thorough investigation in the justice system.
