Crime Branch Opposes Bail to 85-Year-Old in Chatroo Minor Death Case, Says He Was Part of Conspiracy

Crime Branch Opposes Bail to 85-Year-Old in Chatroo Minor Death Case, Says He Was Part of Conspiracy

Kishtwar, September 28, 2026 [VoM News]: The Crime Branch has opposed the bail plea of 85-year-old Peer Baksh in the Chatroo minor death case, alleging that he was part of a conspiracy to terminate the minor girl’s pregnancy and suppress the matter from the authorities.

In its objections before the Principal Sessions Judge, Kishtwar, the prosecution alleged that Peer Baksh organised local Grameen Panchayats at his residence and, along with other accused, took steps to conceal the circumstances surrounding the minor’s pregnancy.

The Crime Branch alleged that a Panchayat Nama was prepared in connection with the matter and signed by Peer Baksh. The document has been seized and sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for examination, it submitted.

According to the prosecution, the parents of the minor, whose statements were recorded before the court, alleged that Peer Baksh organised local committees and pressured them not to approach the authorities.

The Crime Branch further alleged that the accused was aware of the circumstances but deliberately failed to inform the police, and described him as a key figure in the alleged conspiracy.

Opposing the bail plea, the prosecution submitted that the investigation is still at an initial stage and that release of the accused could create a possibility of influencing witnesses or hampering the investigation.

On the accused’s age and medical condition, the Crime Branch submitted that appropriate medical treatment could be provided in custody and that the alleged ailments did not outweigh the seriousness of the allegations.

The prosecution further stated that the investigation has involved examination of hospital records, CCTV footage, medical documents, school records and statements of witnesses. It also stated that the minor’s date of birth was recorded as October 12, 2010, making her below 16 years of age.

The Crime Branch has urged the court to dismiss the bail application, citing the seriousness of the allegations, the material collected during investigation and the apprehension of interference with witnesses.

The matter is pending consideration before the Principal Sessions Judge, Kishtwar.

(Kanoon ki Dastak)