HC seeks undertaking from Handwara victim’s parents

Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, May 9: High Court today sought an undertaking from mother or the father of the girl who was allegedly molested in Handwara last month, that she  does not need protection.
The Division Bench of Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir and Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey while reserving the case for judgment after hearing both the counsels asked that let girl’s mother or father give undertaking that the girl does not need police protection.
The court was hearing a petition filed by the victim’s mother after the alleged molestation by Army personnel of student evoked protests across Kashmir leading to killing of 5 civilians last month.
Mother’s contentions before the court are that her minor girl has been taken into illegal custody by the Superintendent of Police Handwara and SHO Handwara on April 12. She further submits that her daughter was dragged to the police station following her making the allegation of sexual assault.
It is also submitted that following the illegal detention of minor girl and other family members, a video was prepared and then released by the Armed forces, under the control of Defence Spokesman, Colonel N N Hoshi of the 15 corps to which General Officer Commanding 15 corps, Badami Bagh has owned the release and contents of that video.
The victim’s mother seeks direction from the court that her daughter and other relatives who are in police custody be brought before the court immediately.
She further prays that Director General of Police be directed to order for registering of FIR against SP and SHO Handwara for the illegal arrest and detention of her minor daughter and other relatives and speedy and fair investigation be carried out into the matter.
The Government in its objections in opposition to the petition submitted before the court says that the husband and the daughter of the woman were provided protective custody and security in view of apprehending grave and imminent to threat to their lives.
It is further submitted by the respondents that the petitioner has not approached the court with clean hands. She has misrepresented the facts and also concealed material facts to Court as non of her rights either fundamental or legal have been violated