THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 20: The Jharkhand High Court on Friday sought an explanation from the Bokaro Superintendent of Police (SP) over a delay of 10 days in registering an FIR in the case of a missing 18-year-old woman, despite an initial complaint (Sanha) being recorded. The Court also asked why no action was taken against the police station in-charge for the lapse.
SP Asked to Appear in Person
The Court directed the Bokaro SP, who appeared virtually, to be present in person on March 23 with the case diary and an updated status report on the investigation. It warned that the case could be handed over to the CBI if the probe is found unsatisfactory.
The matter was heard by a division bench led by Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad. The Bokaro SP sought time to amend the affidavit filed in the case. Advocates Vincent Rohit Markie and Shantanu Gupta appeared for the petitioner.
Police Action Under Scrutiny
In earlier proceedings, the Court had asked about steps taken to trace the woman, who has been missing for over seven months. Police informed that raids were conducted at multiple locations in Bokaro and nearby areas, and one suspect has been arrested. Efforts are underway to conduct a narco-analysis test on the accused.
Habeas Corpus Petition Filed
A habeas corpus petition has been filed by the woman’s mother. According to the petition, she has been missing since July 31, 2025. The case (No. 147/2025) was registered at Pindrajora police station.
In December 2025, the family received a call claiming the woman was in Pune. Police detained the caller, who said she was with his friend in Pune. However, while being taken to Pune by train with a police team and the woman’s father, the accused escaped. The woman remains untraced.