Koppal Doctor Accused of Tampering with Evidence in Gang Rape Case
Allegations Against the Medical Officer
In Karnataka’s Koppal district, a doctor employed at a government hospital has been charged with tampering with essential medical evidence related to a gang rape case. The Karnataka police initiated the case against the medical officer on December 26.
Details of the Incident
Reports indicate that the doctor is accused of inadequately collecting and preserving critical forensic evidence concerning the alleged gang rape of a 39-year-old woman who serves as a home guard. The incident reportedly took place on November 17, when the woman was allegedly attacked after her juice was spiked. Following the incident, she was admitted to the district hospital, where the medical officer was the attending physician. Subsequently, four men were arrested in connection with the case.
Evidence Collection Concerns
According to statements made to the Indian Express by the police, the medical officer was responsible for collecting and preserving various medical evidence, including DNA samples and other materials, totaling 16 items, essential for the ongoing investigation. However, he is alleged to have destroyed significant materials necessary for the case. Additionally, the police have accused the doctor of making inappropriate and threatening comments during the evidence collection phase, asserting that he could manipulate or alter the evidence at his discretion.
Discovery of Evidence Tampering
The case gained attention when police sought to retrieve the preserved evidence and found that it had allegedly been destroyed. On December 10, the police obtained court approval to register a case against the doctor. However, the registration process was delayed pending judicial authorization, as the offense is classified as non-bailable.
Police Statements and Legal Actions
A police officer remarked that it appeared the doctor was “hand in glove” with the accused, intentionally tampering with vital evidence to protect them from legal repercussions. The medical officer has been charged under Section 238(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to knowingly causing evidence of an offense to disappear or providing false information to shield an offender from punishment.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The police have issued a notice for the doctor to appear for questioning, and the investigation will proceed accordingly, as reported by the Indian Express.