Bhanwari Devi Murder Case: ASP Takes Over Probe, Three Suspects Face Polygraph

The investigation into the sensational Bhanwari Devi Bishnoi murder case in the Lohawat area of Phalodi district has seen a significant shift as the authorities struggle to make a breakthrough. It has been 33 days since the brutal murder took place, yet the police are still searching for the perpetrators. In a major administrative move aimed at accelerating the probe, the Superintendent of Police has officially handed over the case file to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Brajraj Singh Charan. This decision comes amid mounting public pressure and a prolonged sit-in protest that has entered its 24th day.

New Leadership in Investigation

Phalodi Superintendent of Police Satnam Singh confirmed that the change in the investigating officer was made following directives from the Director General of Police (DGP). Previously, the case was being handled by Lohawat Circle Officer Bhawani Singh. However, to bring a fresh perspective and higher-level oversight to the case, ASP Brajraj Singh Charan has now been tasked with leading the investigation. The police department is hopeful that this change will lead to a breakthrough in identifying and capturing those responsible for the crime.

Polygraph Tests for Suspects

In a critical development, the police have decided to conduct polygraph tests on three individuals suspected of having links to the case. SP Satnam Singh stated that certain important facts have emerged during the preliminary investigation that require further clarification. To resolve these inconsistencies, the polygraph test is deemed necessary. The three suspects have already provided their formal consent for the procedure, and the necessary legal and administrative approvals have been secured. The tests will be conducted through the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in the coming days, while this scientific approach is expected to provide vital leads that have so far remained elusive.

Timeline of the Incident

The tragic incident occurred on the night of July 27, when Bhanwari Devi Bishnoi was murdered while she was sleeping outside her house located on her farm. As of Saturday, exactly 33 days have passed since the crime was committed. The lack of arrests has sparked widespread outrage in the community, leading to a sustained protest outside the local police station. For the past 24 days, a large number of people have been gathering daily to demand justice for the victim and the immediate arrest of the killers.

Protests and Political Pressure

The protest is being led by former MLA Kishnaram Vishnoi, who has been vocal about the perceived inaction of the local police, while the demonstrators have consistently demanded accountability from the administration. Earlier, the protesters had called for strict action against the Station House Officer (SHO) and the initial investigating officer. Responding to these demands and the escalating situation, the DGP had previously ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). On top of that, SHO Hari Singh Rajpurohit was transferred from Lohawat to Pali as part of the administrative overhaul. The removal of Bhawani Singh as the investigating officer on Friday marks the latest step in the police department's effort to address the concerns of the grieving family and the protesting public.