Srinagar, Jun 12 (KNS): ‘Group of Concerned Citizens, J&K, comprising civil society members across communities and regions, including jurists, former civil servants academicians, journalists, businessmen and  social activists, has welcomed the judgment in Kathua rape and murder case, issued by the Sessions Court of Pathankot, and lauded the highly professional investigation carried out by the special team of Crime Branch, headed by RK Jalla, under the supervision of IGP, Mujtaba, and ably supplemented by Deepika Rajawat, the counsel for the victim.

Speaking for the GCC, M S Pandit, former Chairman, J&K PSC, advised the prosecutors to look at the possibility of filing an appeal for getting the enhancement of the punishments awarded in this case. In particular, it is necessary to revisit the evidence in regard to one of the main culprits, Vishal, who has been exonerated by the court , for want of solid evidence, in rebuttal of the claim of alibi, pleaded by him.

The Group also demanded prompt and professional investigation into the other similar cases, especially the Sumbal Rape case.’ (KNS)