Ashok Gehlot Criticizes Court Ruling in Nagaur Murder Case

Concerns Raised Over Nagaur Court Verdict

Jaipur, August 6 – Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has expressed deep concern regarding the recent ruling by a local court in the Nagaur Dangawas murder case. He emphasized that the lack of justice after an 11-year-long legal battle highlights serious flaws in both the investigation and prosecution processes. Notably, the special court in Nagaur district (for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) acquitted all 40 accused in the murder case on Wednesday.

In 2015, five Dalits were brutally murdered over a land dispute. Gehlot stated in a press release, "The verdict in the Nagaur Dangawas case, coming after 11 years, is extremely alarming. Six individuals, including five Dalits, were ruthlessly killed in 2015, and now the SC-ST special court has acquitted all 40 defendants, giving them the benefit of the doubt."

He raised a valid question from the victim's families: if all 40 accused have been acquitted, then who is responsible for the murders of these six individuals? The former Chief Minister pointed out that despite an extensive legal battle, including an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the failure to achieve justice indicates significant shortcomings in the inquiry and prosecution. He also criticized the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, stating, "The occurrence of such an incident 11 years ago under the BJP's rule, followed by an unfavorable verdict now, shows that the BJP is not in favor of justice. Accountability must be established for the injustice faced by the Dalit community." He reaffirmed that the Congress party has always stood for the dignity and rights of the Dalit community.

Gehlot urged that a strong appeal process should be initiated in a higher court to ensure justice for the victim's families, and the state government should play an active role in this matter.