Delhi court criticises police in 4-year-old rape case, orders Rs 5 lakh relief

A Delhi court on Monday expressed shock over the negligent handling of a brutal rape case involving a four-year-old girl, describing the police conduct as “unacceptable” in such a heinous and sensitive matter.

Additional Sessions Judge Amit Sahrawat was hearing the case concerning interim compensation for the child survivor. The court had earlier sought the victim impact report (VIR) from the investigating officer (IO), but no report was submitted despite prior notice. Special Public Prosecutor Aditya Kumar appeared for the state.

“The brief facts of the case are that the victim is just four years old and has been brutally raped by the accused. The assault was so severe that both her private parts were torn, necessitating hospitalisation for 15–16 days,” the court noted.

While the child has since been discharged, her condition remains critical. The court observed that the victim’s private parts are currently non-functional, and she relies on alternative medical channels to pass urine and stool. The necessary medical treatment is expected to continue for approximately a year, but there is no certainty regarding full recovery.

The court strongly criticised the police, noting that neither the investigating officer nor any representative appeared in court, and the VIR had not been filed. “It is shocking that the police is working so negligently in such a heinous and sensitive matter. The conduct of the police is taken on record,” the judge said.

Deprecating the actions of the IO and the station house officer (SHO), the court emphasised that the victim and her family should not have to suffer due to official negligence. The proceedings for interim compensation were being conducted without the VIR, underscoring the urgent need for judicial intervention. The court directed that a copy of its order be sent to the deputy commissioner of police (DCP) concerned.

Regarding compensation, the court highlighted the extreme suffering endured by the child, stating, “The sufferings of the victim are beyond imagination as she is a child of just four years. This is the most severe form of pain and sorrow through which the victim is passing at present.”

Underlining its responsibility to provide some relief to the victim and her family, the court deemed the case fit for interim compensation. After considering submissions by the child’s father, it ordered the immediate disbursement of Rs 5 lakh to the victim by the Delhi State Legal Services Authority. The court clarified that the interim compensation amount would be adjusted when the final compensation is decided at the time of judgment.

The ruling highlights not only the trauma faced by the young survivor and her family but also raises serious questions about police accountability in cases of sexual violence against minors. By directing swift compensation, the court aimed to provide immediate financial support to the victim while the investigation continues.