Thane: The Thane sessions court discharged a 39-year-old for the alleged procuration and rape of a minor girl in 2008. The charges were filed under Sections 366-A and 376 of the Indian Penal Code. However, the case was closed after the court found that all parties were untraceable for a considerable period.
On Jan 25, 2008, the 16-year-old girl failed to return home after leaving for college. Her father filed a missing person report the following day.
Investigations revealed that the girl was allegedly in a relationship with one Siddhak Shaikh, who lived in a neighbouring building. Following community tensions, Shaikh reportedly left Kalwa. Further investigation indicated that Shaikh and the girl travelled to his native place in West Bengal, where they got married and began living as husband and wife. Additional Sessions Judge Amit M. Shete noted in his judgment that the incident occurred over 17 years ago and significant time elapsed with circumstances changing substantially. tnn