The Jharkhand High Court on Monday directed the state government to furnish the report of the medical board that examined a female inmate of Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi. The inmate was allegedly sexually assaulted by the jail superintendent, leading to her pregnancy.
Court Directive
A division bench comprising Chief Justice M S Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar issued the directive while hearing a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL). The bench also directed the Ranchi judicial commissioner to submit the report of an inquiry conducted by a judicial magistrate on the court's orders.
Government Affidavit Unsatisfactory
The government had filed an affidavit on behalf of the Director General of Police and the Inspector General of Prisons. However, the High Court found it unsatisfactory. The court observed, "It seems that the police officials are trying to dilute the matter," and questioned why the inmate's medical report had not been produced yet. The case will be heard next on June 17.
Background of the Case
The PIL was registered suo motu by the High Court on May 22, even during summer vacation. This followed a letter from Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi to Chief Justice Sonak, detailing news reports on the alleged assault.
The government had earlier informed the court that a three-member committee of senior police officials had been constituted to investigate the allegations against the jail official. Simultaneously, on the High Court's orders, a team from the District Legal Services Authority, led by Judicial Magistrate Shruti Soren, was also tasked with conducting an independent inquiry.
Next Hearing
The High Court will continue hearing the matter on June 17, expecting compliance with its directives regarding the medical report and inquiry findings.
