Ruchika case: Charges framed against ex-DGP after 10 years

The case dates back to August 12, 1990 when Rathore allegedly molested Ruchika Girotra, a minor, in the office of the Lawn Tennis Association at Panchkula. Ruchika, who went into depression after the incident, finally consumed some poisonous substance on December 12, 1993 and died on Dec 29.

It was only about two years ago that the CBI filed a detailed chargesheet in the case in the court of the CBI Magistrate in Ambala. The chargesheet stated that Aradhana, Ruchika’s friend and daughter of Anand Prakash, was an eyewitness to the case. The chargesheet said that Aradhana, alias Reemu, saw Rathore clutching Ruchika, who was trying to break free. On seeing Reemu, the accused hurriedly released Ruchika and fell back in his chair.

It also said that even after the incident, Rathore tried to send Reemu out on the pretext of calling the coach, but Ruchika also rushed out of the room. Later, Ruchika started crying and told Reemu that he had tried to misbehave with her. He held her hand and then embraced her despite her protests.

Rathore was held guilty first by then DGP R.R. Singh, who conducted an inquiry into the incident. Going by Ruchika’s statement, Singh was of the opinion that a cognisable offence be made out against Rathore. He had recommended registration of a case under the appropriate provisions of the IPC.