Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh | April, 2025
In a case that sent shockwaves across the nation, the National Crime Investigation Bureau (NCIB) played a pivotal role in initiating swift action and ensuring justice in the heinous kidnapping and gang-rape of a minor Dalit girl in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.
NCIB Brings Case to NHRC’s Attention
Acting promptly on disturbing media reports, the NCIB filed a formal complaint before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The complaint outlined grave allegations including kidnapping, prolonged captivity, gang rape, forced consumption of beef, and the burning of a religious tattoo (‘Om’) with acid—all of which amount to serious violations of human rights and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Recognizing the seriousness of the complaint, the NHRC took suo motu cognizance and deputed a fact-finding team led by the Director General of the Commission to conduct a spot inquiry.
Age Controversy and Confirmation
Initial inconsistencies regarding the girl’s age were clarified during the investigation. While the missing person’s complaint listed her age as 18, the First Information Report (FIR) filed later recorded her age as 14. An ossification test (including physical, dental, and X-ray examinations) medically confirmed her age as 14 years, making the case one of child sexual abuse under the POCSO Act.
Her guardians, lacking formal documentation due to the death of both parents and poverty, had presumed her to be older based on her responsibilities at home. However, the NCIB insisted on thorough verification, ensuring the victim received the legal protection entitled to minors.
Police Action and Arrests Following NCIB’s Intervention
The Moradabad Police, acting under scrutiny following NCIB’s complaint, arrested all four accused:
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Salman – Arrested on 04.03.2025
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Aarif & Rashid – Arrested on 07.03.2025
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Zubair @ Jabir – Arrested on 10.03.2025
All were remanded to judicial custody, and a comprehensive chargesheet was filed on 21.04.2025 under:
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Sections 137(2), 70(1), 123, 127(4), 299, 351(3), 124(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
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Sections 5/6 of the POCSO Act
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Sections 3(2)(Va), 3(2)(V) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act
The Action Taken Report (ATR) submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Moradabad, on 29.04.2025 confirmed the investigation and chargesheet filing.
Relief, Rehabilitation, and Education Support
Thanks to NCIB’s push for victim-centered justice, the following rehabilitation measures have been initiated:
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Psychological Counselling: Conducted on 19.03.2025 by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and a medical panel including a clinical psychologist. The report confirmed the victim’s mental stability and absence of suicidal ideation.
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Education Support: The district administration has facilitated formal education for the victim, her brother, and cousin to help them reintegrate into society.
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Compensation: The first installment of ₹4,12,500/- was sanctioned on 21.04.2025 under the Rani Laxmi Bai Mahila Samman Kosh, thanks to NCIB’s follow-up.
Conclusion: NCIB as a Guardian of Marginalized Voices
This case is a stark reminder of the brutal violence faced by marginalized communities, especially Dalit women and children. The NCIB’s proactive approach in bringing the issue to the forefront not only expedited the investigation but also ensured that the victim received justice and state support.
By intervening decisively and urging the NHRC to act, the NCIB reaffirmed its role as a protector of human rights and a voice for the voiceless in India.
“Justice is not merely about punishment, but also about dignity and restoration. We are committed to both,” said an NCIB official involved in the case.