Jharkhand HC issues notice to Home Secretary, DGP on rape-murder of minor in Hazaribagh

March 30, 2026

The Jharkhand High Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the rape and brutal murder of a minor girl in the Vishnugarh area of Hazaribagh district. On Monday, the court issued notices to the State Home Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP), demanding detailed responses on the investigation and measures taken to ensure justice. The court expressed grave concern over the delay in arresting the accused and directed authorities to provide adequate security to the victim’s family.

Case Background

The incident occurred on the evening of Ram Navami, when a Mangala Shobhayatra was being held in the village. The minor girl had gone to watch the procession but did not return home. After an overnight search, her mutilated body was discovered in nearby bushes the following day. Preliminary investigations suggest she was raped before being murdered.

Court’s Observations

Advocate Hemant Shikarwar brought the matter to the court’s attention, citing media reports and comparing the brutality to the infamous Delhi ‘Nirbhaya’ case. The court described the crime as a heinous act that shames humanity. It sought details of the investigation from the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Hazaribagh, who appeared virtually and informed the court that police teams had collected crucial evidence with the help of forensic experts and a dog squad.

Police Response

The SP stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been formed under the directions of DGP Tadasha Mishra and was actively probing the case. He assured the court that the accused would be identified and arrested soon. However, the High Court noted with concern that even six days after the incident, the culprits remained at large, raising questions about the efficiency of the investigation.

Public Outrage

The crime has triggered widespread anger in the region. Local residents staged protests demanding swift justice, while political parties also stepped in. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) called a bandh in Hazaribagh to press for immediate action against the perpetrators. The incident has reignited debates on women’s safety and the need for stronger law enforcement in Jharkhand.

The Jharkhand High Court’s intervention highlights the judiciary’s proactive role in ensuring accountability in cases of sexual violence. The notices to the Home Secretary and DGP underline the seriousness of the matter and the urgent need for systemic reforms. As the SIT continues its probe, the case stands as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by women and children, and the pressing demand for justice and safety in society