Sasaram Court Grants Bail, Criticizes Investigation in Girlfriend Murder Case
The Additional Sessions Judge-IV court in Sasaram delivered a significant ruling on Tuesday, granting bail to a youth arrested for the alleged murder of his girlfriend. In a strongly worded order, the court made sharp observations about the investigation, suggesting the case appears prima facie to be one of honour killing and indicating possible involvement of the informant—the father of the deceased victim.
Court Questions Investigation and Chargesheet
The court raised serious questions about how a chargesheet was filed against the accused in the absence of a prima facie case. The judge noted that another chargesheet may now need to be filed on the angle of honour killing against the informant party, highlighting significant flaws in the police investigation.
According to prosecution details, the case originated on October 10 last year when Sone Lal Singh of Kargahar lodged a First Information Report (FIR). He alleged that his daughter, Priya Kumari, was enticed on September 27 by Vikas Kumar under the pretext of marriage. Tragically, two days later, the decomposed body of the young woman was discovered hanging from a tree in the area.
Investigation Timeline and Inconsistencies
The investigating officer arrested the accused, Vikas Kumar, on October 30 and subsequently sent him to judicial custody. On January 23, the police submitted a chargesheet against him. However, during the hearing of the bail petition, the court identified serious inconsistencies and substantial gaps in the investigation process.
When summoned to court, investigating officer Jaya Bharati stated that the arrest was made based on the accused's confession. The court, however, noted critically that no such confession was recorded in the official case diary, raising questions about procedural compliance and evidence documentation.
Police Response and Ongoing Review
Superintendent of Police for Rohtas, Roshan Kumar, responded to the court's observations by stating that he is currently reviewing the case. This development suggests potential reevaluation of investigation strategies and possible corrective measures in light of the judicial criticism.
The court's decision to grant bail while simultaneously criticizing the investigation highlights growing judicial scrutiny of police procedures in sensitive criminal cases, particularly those involving potential honour killing dimensions. This case now enters a new phase with the possibility of additional chargesheets and continued legal examination of all parties involved.
