Chhawla case: Delhi Commission for Women chief flags poor probe

NEW DELHI: Delhi Commission for Women has written to the home secretary seeking formation of a high-level committee to examine issues related to poor investigation and issues in the trial which allowed acquittal of convicts in Chhawla murder case.
In the letter, DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal stated that when the forensic evidence incriminated the accused persons, the callous manner in which various processes were followed raised an element of doubt which ultimately benefitted the accused persons.She added that the case will have a far-reaching impact on the ongoing rape cases and the systemic issues pointed out by the Supreme Court must be corrected.
Maliwal recommended that a high-level committee be urgently constituted, which would include home secretary, police commissioner, DCW chairperson and other senior officers, to suggest comprehensive reforms to strengthen the functioning of Delhi Police, forensic laboratory as well as trial courts. She said directions should be issued to Delhi Police to ensure that forensic samples reach the laboratory within 48 hours of collection and if the time limit is exceeded, strong action must be taken against the officers concerned.