The Supreme Court of India on Friday strongly criticised police authorities in Ghaziabad over alleged lapses in the investigation into the rape and murder of a four-year-old girl, describing the handling of the case as marked by “indifference” and “insensitivity.” The court also summoned senior police officials and directed them to present case records at the next hearing.

The incident occurred on March 16, when the child was allegedly lured away from her home by a neighbour on the pretext of buying chocolates. She went missing for several hours before her father, a daily wage worker, found her unconscious and critically injured nearby. She was first taken to private hospitals, which reportedly refused admission, and was later declared dead at a district hospital in Ghaziabad.

During the hearing, the bench, comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, expressed concern over the initial police response and medical documentation. The court observed that critical details, including evidence of sexual assault, were not properly recorded in early reports, raising questions about the handling of forensic and procedural aspects of the case.

Also Read: SIT Seeks Cancellation Of Bail For Tantri Rajeevar In Dwarapalaka And Kattilappali Cases

The court also took serious note of allegations that the victim’s family faced pressure after reporting the crime, with claims that they were discouraged from pursuing the case. It directed that no coercive action be taken against the petitioner or witnesses and ordered protection for the family while the investigation continues.

Sharp remarks were also made regarding the filing of the chargesheet by the police. The bench criticised the investigative approach, stating that procedural formalities could not compensate for what it described as serious investigative shortcomings. It further directed the formation of a court-monitored, time-bound Special Investigation Team (SIT), potentially involving a central agency, to ensure a more rigorous probe.

The matter will next be heard on Monday, with the court also ordering the presence of senior police officials and issuing notices to private hospitals that allegedly refused admission to the child at a critical stage.

Also Read: Telangana Police Appoints Nine-Member SIT to Investigate Farmhouse Drug Seizure