2003 gang rape case getting nowhere

The sensational Buddha Jayanti Park gang rape case involving presidential guards is literally stuck with dates, reports Naziya Alvi.

The sensational Buddha Jayanti Park gang rape case involving presidential guards is literally stuck with dates.

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The five-year-old rape case of a 17-year-old Delhi University student has not moved an inch in 14 hearings over six months. Reason: Counsels for the four accused have managed to get the proceedings adjourned either by absenting themselves or without arguing.

However, going by the records, the defence counsels have not cited any major reason for the delay. In February, the case came to a temporary halt after Additional Sessions Judge S.P. Garg, who had heard most part of the case, was transferred to the Tis Hazari court from the Patiala House district courts, where the case was still pending before Additional Sessions Judge S.K. Sarwaria.

Five years ago, the then President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had directed the then Defence Minister George Fernandes to take “tough measures” against the rapists. The Indian Army ordered a separate inquiry into the crime.

With the prosecution having completed its arguments this year, the case is in its final stage.