CBI to probe Badaun rapes

The CBI Thursday registered a first information report (FIR) in Badaun rape case and is sending a team of 20 officials to conduct investigations in Uttar Pradesh, officials said.

Two cousin sisters, aged 14 and 15 years, were allegedly gang raped and were later found hanging from a tree May 27 in Katra Sadatganj village of Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district, causing a national uproar.

"We have registered an FIR in the alleged Badaun rape case. A team of 20 officers led by a DIG and consisting of forensic experts will leave for Uttar Pradesh tomorrow (Friday)," a CBI official said.

"The UP government has been requested to provide logistical support to the visiting team."

While attending an investiture ceremony of the 17th batch of sub-inspectors of the agency, CBI director Ranjit Sinha told reporters: "We have received a notification from the central government and registered a case in Badaun rape and murder case."

An official said that CBI sleuths are part of the special crime branch of the agency.

The agency will also seek the custody of the accused who have been arrested in connection with the case by Uttar Pradesh Police.

Seven people have been booked by the state police.

Five of the seven accused -- two constables Chhatrapal Yadav and Sarvesh Yadav and three brothers -- have been arrested.

The three arrested brothers are Pappu, Awadhesh and Urvesh Yadav.

In a twist to the case, Uttar Pradesh Director-General of Police A.L. Banerjee earlier claimed that rape of one of the victims was not confirmed while suggesting that property could be one of the motives behind the crime.

The double rape and murder triggered nationwide outrage and the Akhilesh Yadav government has drawn flak over the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh. - IANS