The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered a fresh investigation into the 2012 rape and murder of Soujanya in Dharmasthala, Belthangady taluk, and directed a Special Investigation Team to file its report within three months.
Soujanya was attacked on 9 October 2012, a crime that shocked the coastal Karnataka community. Initial inquiries were carried out by local police, later transferred to the CID and eventually to the CBI.
After a lengthy probe, the CBI named Santhosh Rao as the prime accused. However, the CBI Special Court acquitted Rao on 16 June 2023, prompting the victim’s family to demand a new inquiry.
In 2024 the family approached the Karnataka High Court seeking a reinvestigation, but the petition was dismissed. Undeterred, they filed a special leave petition before the Supreme Court in 2026, arguing that the truth remained concealed.
The apex court examined arguments on which agency should lead the fresh probe. The state government informed the court that it stood ready to constitute a Special Investigation Team if required.
By ordering the formation of an SIT and setting a three‑month deadline for the investigation report, the Supreme Court has created a pivotal moment in a case that has lingered for fourteen years. Observers now await the findings that may finally clarify the circumstances surrounding Soujanya's tragic death.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK