Supreme Court orders fresh probe into 2012 rape-murder near Dharmasthala in Karnataka
The Supreme Court has ordered a fresh investigation into the 2012 rape and murder of a 17-year-old in Dharmasthala, Karnataka, citing a botched initial probe. This decision comes after the victim's mother appealed the acquittal of the lone accused, with the court emphasizing the constitutional right to a fair and transparent investigation. The court mandated the new probe to conclude within three months.
Why it matters
This ruling highlights the judiciary's crucial role in ensuring justice and accountability, particularly in cases of severe crime and investigative failures, potentially setting a precedent for similar cases. It reinforces the importance of fair investigation as a fundamental constitutional right.
The Supreme Court on Monday (September 21, 2026) ordered fresh investigation into the 2012 brutal rape and murder of a 17-year-old near the bathing ghat on the outskirts of Dharmasthala in Karnataka while expressing shock at the botched-up probe into the incident.
A fresh investigation should be concluded within a period of three months and police report shall be filed before the court concerned, the court said.
The lone accused in the case, Santosh Rao, was acquitted by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in June 2023. The victim’s father had subsequently filed a writ petition in the top court. He had, however, died while the case was pending. The victim’s mother took up the fight for justice for their daughter.
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