Special Team Formed to Probe Alleged Rape of Minor at Doon ISBT

Dehradun Police have established an eight-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Superintendent of Police City Pramod Kumar. This team will probe the alleged gang rape of a minor girl at the Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Dehradun. Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh stated that the SIT was formed due to the case's sensitivity and to ensure a thorough investigation.

The incident, involving a 16-year-old girl, occurred on the night of August 12 and came to light on Saturday evening. A case was registered at Patel Nagar Police Station under Section 70(2) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Sections 5(g)/6 of the POCSO Act. The police swiftly arrested five suspects on Sunday, including the bus driver, conductor, two other bus drivers, and a cashier from the Transport Corporation.

Arrests and Investigation

The minor girl, hailing from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, was seeking information about a bus to Punjab at Kashmiri Gate bus stand in Delhi. The accused convinced her to board their bus to Dehradun, suggesting she could catch another bus to Punjab from there. Upon reaching ISBT Dehradun at night, all passengers disembarked except for the driver Dharmendra and conductor Devendra, who allegedly raped her.

Ravi and Rajpal, drivers of other buses parked nearby, also allegedly raped the girl upon learning about the incident. Later, Devendra informed cashier Rajesh Sonkar at the cash counter about the crime. Sonkar then went inside the bus and allegedly raped her as well.

Collection of Evidence

Singh mentioned that the SIT has dispatched a team to gather footage from dhabas where the bus stopped en route from Delhi to ISBT Dehradun. This footage is crucial for building a strong case against the accused. The SIT officials have been instructed to meticulously investigate all aspects and collect substantial evidence against those involved.

The SIT may soon take custodial remand of the accused to bolster their evidence. Singh emphasised that gathering effective evidence is essential for presenting a robust case in court against all accused parties.

The formation of this SIT underscores the seriousness with which authorities are handling this case. The aim is to ensure justice for the victim through a comprehensive investigation and strong legal action against those responsible.