The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought the Karnataka government's stand on a petition demanding a de novo investigation into the 2016 rape and murder of a woman in Dharmasthala. The court expressed displeasure over the state's failure to submit details of steps taken despite having been granted time earlier to do so.
Court's Displeasure Over Delay
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh pulled up the state government for not filing the required information. The court noted that the state had sought time to file its response but failed to comply. The bench directed the government to submit its reply within two weeks.
Background of the Case
The petitioner, Sowjanya's father, has sought a fresh probe, alleging that the initial investigation was flawed and that the real culprits have not been brought to justice. The case dates back to 2016 when the woman was raped and murdered in Dharmasthala, a temple town in Dakshina Kannada district.
Legal Proceedings
The Supreme Court is hearing a special leave petition against the Karnataka High Court's order that dismissed the plea for a de novo investigation. The petitioner has argued that the trial court's conviction was based on weak evidence and that the investigation was compromised.
The bench has issued notice to the Karnataka government and sought its response. The matter is scheduled for further hearing in June 2026. The court also directed the state to file an affidavit detailing the steps taken to ensure a fair investigation.
