Ruchika molestation case: Show cause notice issued to Rathore

New Delhi, Dec 26 (ANI): The Union Home Ministry on Saturday issued a show cause notice to former Haryana Director General of Police S.P.S Rathore asking him to provide reasons why his police medals should not be withdrawn and his post-retirement pension be reduced in connection with his role in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

Simultaneously, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said after a meeting with CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat that there was merit in reopening the case for fresh scrutiny.

Hooda also said that full security is being provided to the Girhotra family.

However, Karat demanded stern punishment for Rathore

"We want the state government to be proactive in getting the punishment enhanced for Rathore and reopen the case." Karat said.

Earlier, former Haryana Chief Minister Om Prakash Chuatala defended himself in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case, putting the blame on his predecessor Bansi Lal.

He said the benefits given to the accused-- former Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) SPS Rathore-took place under the Bansi Lal regime.

Chautala said Rathore was promoted as DGP of the state in 1999 during Bansi Lal's government on the recommendation of bureaucrats.

Rathore was charged with allegedly molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra, a promising young tennis star in 1990. He was then an Inspector General of Police and the head of the Haryana Lawn Tennis Federation.

Teenager Ruchika killed herself three years after the incident by drinking poison.

CBI's Special Magistrate J S Sidhu sentenced 67-year-old Rathore to six months rigorous imprisonment (RI) during an in-camera proceeding and imposed a fine of Rs 1,000, but Rathore got bail immediately. (ANI)