Rathore jailed for 18 months
Former Haryana DGP Shambhu Pratap Singh Rathore is finally in jail for molesting 14-year-old schoolgirl Ruchika Girhotra in August 1990 after a Chandigarh court on Tuesday confirmed his conviction by the trial court and enhanced his original jail term from six to 18 months.
Additional district and sessions judge Gurbir Singh directed the CBI to take him into custody. Exulted Ruchika’s father Subhash Chander Girhotra: “This evil man (who) tormented and drove my daughter to her death is actually being arrested and sent to jail!”
This is the first time in the 20 years since he molested Ruchika that the former DGP was formally arrested.
He tried to avoid jail, saying he was unwell and had an appointment at PGIMER. But the judge said the jail authorities would decide on his hospitalisation.
Mr Rathore appeared stunned, and there was no sign of his infamous smirk. Lawyers said he first refused to accompany the CBI officers to Burail Jail, insisting he be given a copy of the order.
Judge Gurbir Singh had to return and inform him no such provision existed in the CrPC.
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