Molestation convict ex-DGP 'graces' R-Day function

Among the 'dignitaries' occupying prominent space at a Republic Day function in Haryana, was SPS Rathore, the tainted former state director general of police (DGP) who was convicted in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

The development has left many astonished over what is being seen as a completely insensitive attitude of the administration to have accorded "VIP status" for the convicted former top cop at the Republic Day function in Panchkula - the place which saw violence over Dera Sacha Sauda chief's arrest last year.

Rathore's presence on stage triggered strong reactions from members of the civil society, including the family of Anand Prakash - the crusader who led an unflinching struggle for decades to ensure justice for Ruchika Girhotra.

Ruchika had committed suicide three years after the incident in 1990.

Rathore stood up along with other officials while the chief guest, a divisional commissioner rank official, saluted the tri-color that was ceremoniously hoisted. Rathore left the venue thereafter.

The developments unfolded a week after Anand Prakash passed away.

Prakash's daughter Anuradha, who is based in US  reached here a few days ago for her father's last rites, said the move underlines the callous response of the government towards women's safety and rights.

"It's shameless. It's an insult," she said.

Anurandha said Rathore must have been formally invited for the event, without which it was not possible for him to be present on stage with top government functionaries.

Ironically, on the day Rathore was being accorded VIP treatment by the local administration, flanked by top government functionaries, prominent personalities in Panchkula held a remembrance meeting to underline the contribution of Anand Prakash.

They were ignorant of Rathore being treated as a VIP at a close by location on Republic Day.

Prakash's family is seeking answers from the administration, but to no avail. Officials are tight-lipped on the issue. Some are citing it as an oversight.