Minor Dalit Girl Raped And Cremated In Delhi Cantt: Why this indifference to women?

Minor Dalit Girl Raped and Murder At Delhi Cantt: Delhi police has registered a case in the rape and murder of a minor Dalit girl in a crematorium. The priest at the crematorium and three other accused have been arrested. However, there has always been a question mark on the safety of women and girls in the capital city. It is many such horrendous incidents that have led to the moniker of Delhi being the rape capital of the country. How long will this indifference to women continue?

A Dalit girl, who had gone to the Delhi Cantt crematorium to get cold water, was allegedly gangrape and murdered. She was nine and her parents worked as ragpickers. The incident did not stop there as she was forcibly cremated thereafter, with her mother standing and still comprehending the death.

The Police Action

An FIR  has been registered based on the mother's statement. Four people have been taken into custody, the Delhi police team has said that FSL and crime team collected samples for the investigation. A case under Sections 304 , 342 , 201 and 34  also Sections 302 (punishment for murder) and 376 (punishment for rape), and relevant sections of SC/ST Act and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act  have been added as per the Indian Penal Code.

Similarity to Hathras

The disposing off of the child's body reminded everyone of Hathras case an year ago, where the 19-year-old deceased woman's corpse, another person from the Dalit community, was cremated at the dead of the night. But do social media outrage and hashtags translate to on-ground change?

Protesters have once again come out on the road in Delhi Cantt area asking for the perpetrators to be punished. On Monday, DCW has also issued a summon to the Delhi Police and sought a detailed report.

CCTV footage?

The Hindu reported neighbours have claimed to have seen CCTV footage in which the deceased girl can be seen walking naked.  The police have said technical reports will be examined.

Other Similar Incidences

In other reports, in June another case of rape of two sisters was reported from the nearby area. Two defence civilians were taken into custody on allegation of rape and molesting two sisters near the crematorium in Delhi Cantonment. However, some reports have claimed the incident took place inside the crematorium.