Jharkhand: A village panchayat in Jharkhand’s Gumla district has come under scrutiny after it allegedly attempted to settle the rape of a three-year-old girl through a local resolution instead of reporting the crime to the police.
According to police, the panchayat imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on the accused during a village meeting, allegedly to resolve the matter within the community. Reports also claim that part of the money collected was used to organise a celebration.
The incident came to light after police received information that villagers were trying to suppress the case. Acting on the tip-off, officers from Ghaghra Police Station reached the village while the gathering was underway.
Station House Officer Mohan Kumar said the police arrested the accused from the spot and recorded the statement of the child’s mother. He added that pressure within the village had prevented the family from approaching the police earlier.
Police have registered a case under the relevant provisions of law, and further investigation is underway. Authorities are also examining the role of those who allegedly attempted to conceal the offence and prevent the matter from reaching law enforcement.
