Jammu and Kashmir High Court Orders CBI Investigation into Unnatural Death of Minor

Court mandates transfer of case to CBI, emphasizes on translation and monitoring for comprehensive investigation

In a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation into the unnatural death of a thirteen-year-old minor girl, daughter of petitioner Mukhtyar Ali. The decision was made on December 18, 2025, by Justice Rahul Bharti, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

The case, originally being handled by local authorities, has been transferred to the CBI to ensure a detailed and unbiased examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragic death. The court has instructed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of the CBI in Jammu, Mr. Venkateswarlu Chandu, to initiate preliminary verification and subsequent investigation as per the CBI Manual.

A crucial aspect of the court's directive includes the translation of documents related to the case from Urdu into Hindi or English. This step is aimed at facilitating the CBI’s investigation process. The translation is to be completed by January 18, 2026, following which the enquiry file will be handed over to the CBI.

Justice Bharti further directed the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Jammu, to monitor the progress of the investigation, ensuring diligence and transparency in the process. The CBI has been tasked with updating the Magistrate within three months regarding the status of the enquiry, preventing any laxity in the investigation.

Additionally, local police stations have been instructed to cooperate with the CBI, providing necessary assistance to further the investigation. The court order also mandates compliance from all parties involved, including the SDPO, Akhnoor, and senior officials, ensuring a seamless transition and execution of the investigation.

This decision reflects the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring justice and underscores the importance of thorough investigative processes in cases involving minors. The transfer of the case to the CBI is expected to shed light on the facts and circumstances surrounding the minor’s death, ultimately bringing closure to the grieving family.

Bottom Line:

Investigation into the unnatural death of a minor directed to be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough enquiry and investigation as per CBI Manual and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Manual

Mukhtyar Ali v. UT of J&K, (Jammu And Kashmir) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2825367