The Jharkhand High Court has expressed concern over the slow progress in the investigation of a girl who disappeared from Gumla district in 2018. The court has given the state government a two-week deadline to demonstrate tangible advancements in the case. If no significant developments are shown, the investigation might be transferred to the CBI.
During the hearing, the court, led by Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, criticized the lack of substantial results even after more than seven years since the girl went missing. The court emphasized that if no concrete progress is made within the specified period, it will consider handing over the case to the CBI for further investigation. Jharkhand DGP Tadasha Mishra provided an update on the investigation’s current status during the hearing.
The court questioned the reasons behind the prolonged inability to locate the missing girl and sought clarification on the investigative direction being pursued. It also requested information from the Gumla SP regarding the ongoing investigation. Following a review of the presented details, the bench noted the insufficient progress in the inquiry and instructed the state government to submit a comprehensive and satisfactory report within two weeks.
If substantial advancements are not evident by the next hearing, the court reiterated its stance on potentially transferring the case to the CBI. The missing girl’s mother had filed a habeas corpus plea with the High Court, prompting these judicial actions. The court had previously highlighted the importance of utilizing technology effectively and establishing clear protocols, such as using Aadhaar-related data, in cases involving missing children.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to investigate the matter, conducting inquiries at various locations; however, the girl’s whereabouts remain unknown. The High Court has consistently stressed the critical nature of addressing missing children cases promptly and with utmost seriousness.
