The Jammu & Kashmir government has ordered the Crime Branch to investigate the alleged sexual assault and death of a tribal teenager in Kishtwar, amid allegations of a cover-up in the case. The move comes days after allegations of prolonged sexual abuse of the minor and a subsequent abortion attempt that preceded her death sparked protests across the district.

The girl was brought to the hospital for an alleged abortion attempt which proved fatal, sparking widespread outrage in Kishtwar. At least six people, including a nurse and a sweeper at the hospital, were arrested on suspicion of complicity in the case.

Background to the Investigation

The investigation has now been handed over to the Crime Branch from the Special Investigation Team currently probing the case. The government has assured that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure justice for the victim's family.

The girl's father, who became aware of his daughter's pregnancy only after she was taken to a health centre a fortnight before her death, has filed a writ petition in court. He alleges that the doctor at the hospital refused to inform the police and instead asked him to do so.

He also claims that once the pregnancy came to light, the headmaster and others linked to him — including a local chemist and two teachers — tried to cover it up. The father has urged the court to investigate all those involved in his daughter's death.

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Family's Plea for Justice

The investigation is ongoing with multiple agencies involved. The Crime Branch has initiated the process to take over the investigation from the Special Investigation Team currently probing the case.

The girl was brought to the hospital for an alleged abortion attempt which proved fatal, sparking widespread outrage in Kishtwar. At least six people, including a nurse and a sweeper at the hospital, were arrested on suspicion of complicity in the case.

The investigation is ongoing with multiple agencies involved. The Crime Branch has initiated the process to take over the investigation from the Special Investigation Team currently probing the case.

The government has assured that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure justice for the victim's family. The probe into the girl's death will continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding her tragic demise.