A 60-year-old man who allegedly planned the kidnapping, rape and murder of an 8-year-old girl in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district in January has surrendered to the crime branch, Rising Kashmir reported.
Sanji Ram, a former revenue official, surrendered just days after the police arrested his son, Vishal, from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, the police said.
Director General of Police, Shesh Paul Vaid confirmed Ram’s surrender. “Yes, he has surrendered. His son was also arrested,” Rising Kashmir quoted Vaid as saying.
The brutal rape and murder had sparked protests across the state, with several groups demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry. In February, the Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested a special police officer in connection with the case. A police constable and a sub-inspector were also arrested after the crime branch found they allegedly tried to destroy evidence after the crime. The alleged mastermind Sanji Ram was also seen attending protests organised by the Hindu Ekta Manch against the arrest of the police officer, according to Rising Kashmir.
In March, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti rejected the demand for a CBI inquiry, saying the crime branch had already completed “over 95%” of the investigation.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!