Daijiworld Media Network - Hubballi
Hubballi, Apr 29: A local court in Hubballi has directed authorities to dispose of the body of Ritesh Kumar (35), the accused in the recent rape and murder of a five-year-old girl, who was later shot dead by police while allegedly trying to escape custody.
Efforts by police to trace Kumar’s family in Bihar and other northern states had failed, prompting the court to approve the disposal of the body. Officials from the Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute (KMRCI) in Hubballi had earlier written to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), citing concerns over decomposition and requesting further instructions.
The court, while granting permission for the disposal, directed authorities to retain necessary body part samples in compliance with Supreme Court guidelines. The CID has since confirmed that the final rites would be conducted by Wednesday, April 30.
The incident that led to Kumar’s death occurred on April 13. He was in police custody and was being taken to identify his residence when he allegedly attempted to flee. He was shot dead by police during the escape attempt.
The case had sparked widespread outrage after Kumar, believed to be a native of Patna, allegedly kidnapped, attempted to sexually assault, and then murdered the minor girl by strangulation after she cried out for help. The crime took place within Ashokanagar police station limits. CCTV footage capturing Kumar carrying the child had gone viral, intensifying public anger.
Following the encounter, PSI Annapoorna, who opened fire on the accused, received praise from various quarters, with many hailing the swift police response.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) had been filed by the Karnataka unit of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and women’s rights activist Madhu Bhushan, seeking to ensure the preservation of the accused's body for potential evidentiary purposes. The court initially directed authorities to follow all legal protocols before issuing the order for disposal.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi also reacted to the incident, describing the crime as deeply disturbing. Referring to the police action, he stated that the accused attempted to escape and attacked the police, which led to his being shot. He added that the accused was suspected to have consumed drugs and called for strong measures to tackle the growing drug menace in Karnataka.