Paediatrics head files affidavit in Supreme Court rejecting allegations; parents demand CBI probe amid criticism of police investigation
In a significant development in the alleged sexual assault case of a 4-year-old girl in Gurugram, the head of the paediatrics department at Max Healthcare has submitted her response before the Supreme Court of India, firmly denying allegations that she altered her medical opinion under pressure.
In her affidavit, the doctor stated that her findings have remained consistent since the initial examination and termed claims of modifying her report as “completely incorrect.”
She clarified, “I have not changed my medical opinion in any manner. Any information given by any party in this regard is completely incorrect.”
Court Questions Medical Opinion Change Allegations
During earlier proceedings, the victim’s counsel had alleged that the doctor changed her opinion nearly one-and-a-half months after the initial examination. The counsel questioned the circumstances under which a subsequent communication to the police reportedly contained different observations.
Taking serious note of the allegations, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant had sought a detailed explanation from the doctor.
Doctor Details Timeline of Medical Examination
According to the affidavit, the child was brought to the hospital on February 2. After interacting with the child and her mother, the doctor prepared a case sheet based on the child’s account.
As per the statement recorded, a domestic helper allegedly took the child to a “dirty place,” where a man kissed her cheeks, twisted her ears, and hit her on the stomach.
The doctor informed the Court that no external injuries were found during the physical examination, and the child’s private parts appeared normal.
She further stated that the parents were advised to approach the police and register a medico-legal case. Subsequently, a police officer recorded her statement based on the case sheet, which she signed.
Repeated Statement After 47 Days Sparks Controversy
The controversy intensified when, 47 days after the incident, two police officers approached the doctor again. In response, she stated that she repeated the same details from memory as recorded earlier, denying any inconsistency.
Supreme Court Slams Police, Orders SIT Probe
Earlier, the Supreme Court of India had strongly criticised the handling of the case by the Haryana Police, describing it as “shocking” and insensitive.
The Court has now ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe and removed senior Gurugram police officials, including the police commissioner, from the investigation.
Parents Demand Independent Probe
Meanwhile, the child’s parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation and have demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or an SIT to ensure transparency and justice in the case.
The matter continues to remain under close judicial scrutiny, with further proceedings expected in the coming days.
