SC flags ‘serious issues’ in Gurugram minor case, orders child-sensitive probe

The Supreme Court on Monday underscored the gravity of the alleged sexual assault of a three-year-old girl in Gurugram, stating that the matter involves “serious issues” and will not be closed at this stage.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to adopt a child-sensitive approach while recording the victim’s statement. The court instructed the all-women SIT to visit the child’s residence in plain clothes and be accompanied by a psychologist or counsellor to avoid causing further trauma.

The bench granted two weeks for completion of the investigation and barred trial courts from entertaining any bail applications of the accused until the SIT files its chargesheet. It also made clear that proceedings against any individuals, including a doctor earlier questioned over alleged inconsistencies in her statement, will not be dropped at present.

The SIT informed the court that polygraph test reports of the accused are expected within a week and emphasised the need to interact directly with the child as part of the probe.

Earlier, the apex court had sharply criticised the Haryana Police for what it termed a “shameful” and “insensitive” handling of the case, including dilution of charges under the POCSO Act. The investigation was subsequently transferred to an SIT comprising women IPS officers to ensure fairness and accountability.

According to police, the child was allegedly abused over a two-month period by domestic workers and an accomplice at a residential society in Gurugram. The incident came to light after the victim disclosed the abuse to her mother, leading to the registration of an FIR in February.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on April 27, with the court indicating that the case could set a significant precedent in ensuring sensitive handling of crimes against children.