REGIONAL

‘Could jeopardize reputation’: Court grants anticipatory bail to IAF officer in rape case

By News Desk

September 14, 2024

The Jammu Kashmir High Court has granted anticipatory bail to a Wing Commander of the Indian Air Force, who is facing charges of rape, following an FIR registered by the Budgam police, Indian Express reported.

The alleged incident occurred on January 1, 2024.

The court allowed the investigation to proceed but directed that no chargesheet be filed without its approval. The court emphasized that the officer’s arrest could jeopardize both his reputation and his career.

The officer has been asked to provide two solvent sureties of Rs 50,000 each, along with a personal bond of the same amount.

Additionally, the court stipulated that the officer must not leave Jammu and Kashmir without the permission of his Commanding Officer, and he is prohibited from contacting prosecution witnesses by any means.

The FIR was registered under Section 376(2) of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses rape committed by a member of the Armed Forces.

Awoman officer stationed at the same base accused the Wing Commander of ongoing harassment, sexual assault, and mental torture.

She alleged that the assault occurred following a New Year’s Eve party at the Air Force Station in Srinagar, where the officer reportedly called her to a room under the pretext of giving her a New Year’s gift.