A Case of Failure of Implementation of MOHFW Guidelines for Medicolegal Examination of Sexual Violence Complicated by Contradictory Autopsy Findings

Abstract

A 13 year old female was brought to BHU, Trauma Centre in an unconscious, intubated state with a ligature mark around the neck, a  crudely sutured wound on right wrist and an alleged history of sexual assault. We witnessed multitude of hurdles pertaining to this case  which led to delay in evidence collection, dispatch, and analysis. This occurred at various steps beginning from preliminary reporting and  treatment, up to the demise and even thereafter. The case was further convoluted with a completely contrasting autopsy report. It clearly  indicates that major improvements need to be made at almost all steps and that we must bring to light the ground reality in dealing with  such cases. There is a dire need for addressal of the deviations from beau ideal due to numerous shortcomings. The motive of presenting  this case can be perceived through this quote: "If it were not for injustice, man would not know justice." Here, we aim to reduce barriers  associated with preliminary reporting, evidence collection and autopsy documentation so as to support timely investigation and  prosecution.