Supreme Court Critiques Gurugram Police in Child Rape Case

The Supreme Court has sharply criticized the Gurugram police for their inadequate handling of a child rape case involving a four-year-old girl. The court highlighted serious flaws in the investigation and the insensitivity shown by law enforcement, which has left the victim in distress. A Special Investigation Team has been formed to reassess the case, and the court has mandated that future proceedings be conducted by a female judicial officer. The next hearing is set for April 6, as the court seeks to ensure justice for the young victim.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 25, 2026, 15:13 IST

Supreme Court's Strong Reprimand of Police Conduct

The Supreme Court has expressed severe criticism of the Gurugram police's handling of a child rape case involving a four-year-old girl, stating that the careless and insensitive investigation has left the victim in profound shock. The court observed that the police appeared to be completely unaware of the provisions of the POCSO Act and highlighted significant deficiencies in their investigation.

Led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, the bench noted that the actions of the police and child welfare officials exacerbated the child's suffering and attempted to downplay the severity of the crime. In response, the court established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a female IPS officer and ordered the submission of all relevant records, while also issuing show-cause notices to police officials and members of the child welfare committee.

This case pertains to an incident where two female domestic workers and a male accomplice allegedly raped the four-year-old girl approximately two months ago in a society located in Sector 54, Gurugram.

Concerns Over Police Investigation

During the hearing, the bench was informed that the police initially registered an FIR but downgraded the crime despite indications of serious offenses under POCSO. The court noted that the conduct of the police and the child welfare committee further intensified the child's distress and attempted to undermine the evidence and family statements.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Supreme Court that the magistrate's report is still pending, while the Gurugram police commissioner and the investigating officer appeared before the bench. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi highlighted serious discrepancies, including changes made to the medical opinion by a doctor after the child's initial statement was recorded.

New Investigation Ordered

The court mandated a fresh investigation, forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by IPS officer Nazneen, and instructed that all records be submitted immediately. The existing team from Gurugram police was barred from further investigation, and show-cause notices were issued to police officials and child welfare committee members.

The court sought clarification from the doctor regarding the changes in the medical report and emphasized the need for a sensitive approach, directing that the case be heard by a female judicial officer in the POCSO court. The next hearing is scheduled for April 6.