Major Rehman dismissed for using criminal force against Handwara girl

Major Rehman Hussain was on Monday dismissed from service after he was found guilty of using force with the intent of outraging the modesty of a 12-year-old girl, but was absolved of the charge of raping her mother in Handwara in Jammu-Kashmir two months ago.

On the basis of deposition of several prosecu-tion witnesses, the General Court Martial here relied on the DNA report which negated the claim of rape as there were contradictions in their statements and the material evidence did not corroborate their claims.

However, the GCM found him guilty of using criminal force with the intent of outraging the modesty of the girl. The sentence, handed over by the GCM, is subject to confirmation by the GOC-in-C of Northern Command, Lt Gen Hari Prasad.

Major Hussain has the option of submitting a pre-confirmation appeal under the Army law. He can also appeal to the Army Chief or Centre in case his sentence is confirmed by the Lt Gen Prasad.