Delhi Court Convicts Juvenile for 2017 Murder of Undertrial Near Rohini Court Complex
A Delhi court has delivered a significant verdict, convicting a juvenile for the 2017 murder of a 38-year-old undertrial near the Rohini court complex. The case, which has drawn attention to security protocols and legal procedures, saw the child in conflict with law (CCL) facing serious charges under murder provisions and sections of the Arms Act.
Court's Detailed Ruling on the Fatal Incident
In a comprehensive order, Additional Sessions Judge Amit Sahrawat stated, "It is a proved fact that the death of deceased Rajesh has been caused by CCL by firing a gun shot upon deceased. The said gun shot has been fired from a very close range and it shows the intention of CCL to commit the murder of deceased." The judge emphasized that the evidence clearly established the juvenile's involvement in the fatal shooting.
The court further noted, "The considerable fact is that the person who was running towards deceased from backside (also visible in CCTV footage) was apprehended by the jail staff, and this apprehended person is the CCL and not any other person." This observation highlighted the crucial role of surveillance footage in identifying and apprehending the suspect immediately after the incident.
Background and Circumstances of the 2017 Shooting
At the time of the tragic event, Rajesh—who was an accused in a matter pending before the Rohini court—was lodged in Jhajjar jail. In April 2017, staff members from Jhajjar Jail brought him to the court for a scheduled hearing. Outside the court complex, Rajesh was shot dead, and the juvenile was promptly apprehended by authorities. During the arrest, two firearms were recovered from the CCL, adding to the gravity of the charges.
The judge remarked in the order, "...facts leave no doubt in holding that it was the CCL who fired gunshot upon the deceased, and the burden lies upon CCL to prove as to what he was doing there with two countrymade pistols, and there is no explanation from CCL in this regard." This statement underscored the court's position on the juvenile's possession of illegal weapons at the crime scene.
Investigation and Defense Arguments
The police investigation was thorough, examining 23 witnesses to build a robust case. The prosecution relied on multiple pieces of evidence, including:
- Testimony from three eyewitnesses, all of whom were policemen from Jhajjar Jail
- Clear CCTV footage capturing the incident and the suspect's movements
- Forensic reports that corroborated the sequence of events
However, the juvenile's defense counsel presented counterarguments, challenging the prosecution's narrative. The counsel contended that there was no documentary evidence to confirm the accused's presence at the court on the day of the incident. Additionally, the defense submitted that Rajesh's death resulted from police negligence, arguing that despite two hospitals being located approximately 100 meters from the spot, he was transported to a hospital 3 kilometers away, potentially delaying critical medical intervention.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about security measures around court premises and the handling of individuals in judicial custody. The conviction marks a pivotal moment in a lengthy legal process that began nearly a decade ago, reflecting the judiciary's commitment to addressing violent crimes involving minors within the framework of juvenile justice laws.
