The trial in the Nasrapur rape and murder case moved closer to its conclusion on Tuesday, with the prosecution examining final witnesses before the special Pocso court in Pune. The court recorded the deposition of a prosecution witness (PW), a cyber expert, whose testimony dealt with the authentication and preservation of electronic evidence collected during the investigation.
Cyber Expert Testifies on Electronic Evidence
The cyber expert's deposition focused on the integrity and handling of digital evidence, including data extraction and chain of custody. The prosecution emphasized the importance of this testimony in establishing the veracity of electronic records used in the case.
Final Witness Begins Deposition
The deposition of the final PW, chief investigating officer Vijayamala Pawar, also commenced. During her examination-in-chief, the prosecution produced several documents connected to the investigation. These included station diary extracts, records pertaining to panch witnesses, post-mortem examination forms, correspondence with medical authorities regarding the post-mortem procedure, records relating to securing the scene of the offence, and communications seeking preparation of a sketch map of the spot.
The prosecution also submitted correspondence with various government departments and agencies, including requests for appointment of cyber experts and a forensic photographer, communications with Sassoon General Hospital regarding the advance death certificate and post-mortem notes, and letters addressed to revenue and forest authorities.
Prosecution Alleges Sexual Assault After Death
Referring to the post-mortem report and related medical evidence, special public prosecutor Ajay Misar submitted that the prosecution had found material suggesting that the victim’s body was allegedly subjected to sexual assault even after death. The prosecutor relied on the medical findings while outlining the prosecution’s case against the accused.
Final Stages of Evidence
Misar further said the prosecution was in the final stages of leading its evidence. During her testimony, Pawar explained various aspects of the investigation, including correspondence records, CCTV footage, medical documents, post-mortem findings, and other material relied upon by the prosecution. The witness became emotional while referring to certain aspects of the investigation and the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death.
The examination-in-chief of the investigating officer remained incomplete, and the matter was adjourned for further recording of her evidence. Misar said the prosecution is expected to conclude the testimony of its final witness shortly. Thereafter, the court is likely to record the statements of the accused before proceeding to final arguments.
Advocates Radhika Navandar-Joshi and Padekar, appearing for the original complainant, were present in court during the hearing.
