The 2013 case involving three TV news channels broadcasting edited and obscene videos of a child and linking it to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu's rape case has taken a new turn. The original police complaint against 15 journalists involved in the case has been declared "untraceable" by the Gurugram police. The special POCSO court has directed the police commissioner to form a committee and investigate the matter, holding the erring officials accountable. Meanwhile, eight journalists have been charged and five have been cleared of charges in the case, highlighting the flaws in police investigation. Stay tuned for updates on the court's decision on July 12.
Asharamji Bapu Case: Google Trends and the POCSO Court's Directive
Background:
Asaram Bapu, a self-styled godman, was charged with rape in 2013. During the trial, three TV news channels broadcast edited and obscene videos of a child, linking it to the case. This led to outrage and a police complaint against 15 journalists involved.
Google Trends:
Recent Google searches for "Asharamji Bapu Case" reveal a spike in interest coinciding with the announcement of the original police complaint being declared "untraceable."
POCSO Court's Directive:
The Gurugram police's failure to locate the complaint has prompted the special POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) court to direct the police commissioner to form a committee and investigate the matter. The committee is tasked with identifying the erring officials and holding them accountable.
Journalists Charged:
Eight journalists have been charged in the case, while five have been cleared. The charges highlight the flaws in the original police investigation. The court is expected to issue a decision on the case on July 12.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is the POCSO Act?
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) aims to protect children from sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. It provides strict punishments for perpetrators.
2. Why was the original police complaint declared "untraceable"?
The Gurugram police have not provided an explanation for why the complaint could not be located.
3. What are the charges against the journalists?
The journalists are charged with broadcasting obscene videos of a child, which violated the POCSO Act and caused distress to the victim.
4. What is the significance of the POCSO court's directive?
The directive shows that the judicial system is taking the case seriously and is committed to ensuring accountability in the investigation.
5. What is the expected outcome of the court case?
The court is expected to decide whether the journalists are guilty and, if so, what punishment they will receive. The outcome may also have implications for the handling of similar cases in the future.
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