Patna Girls’ Hostel Case: Questions Raised Over SHO Roshni Kumari’s Role and Use of Private Driver in Investigation

The recent tragic case at Shambhu Girls’ Hostel, Patna, has put the Chitragupt Nagar Police under intense scrutiny. Concerns have emerged over the conduct of Station House Officer (SHO) Roshni Kumari, with the victim’s family alleging that she failed to act for three critical days following the incident. Adding to the controversy, a private driver was reportedly sent to collect key evidence, raising fears of tampering and procedural lapses.

72 Hours of Inaction

The incident occurred on January 6, when the student was admitted to hospital in an unconscious state. Hospital authorities immediately informed the police, but no concrete action was taken by the Chitragupt Nagar police on January 6, 7, or 8. It was only on January 9, after the victim’s condition worsened and a doctor privately alerted the family, that an FIR was filed. Despite being a female officer, SHO Roshni Kumari reportedly did not record the victim’s statement or visit the hostel, raising questions about her commitment and sensitivity.

Private Driver Handling Evidence

A particularly shocking revelation emerged when it was found that SHO Roshni Kumari sent her private driver to the hostel to retrieve CCTV footage and the DVR, as she allegedly did not know the location herself. This unusual step has sparked serious concerns about the integrity of the evidence. Legal experts and the family question whether digital footage remained secure during the 72-hour delay, and whether it could have been altered or deleted.

‘Suicide Theory’ Pushed Prematurely

Following the student’s death on January 11, the police faced mounting pressure. On January 12, ASP Abhinav announced in a press conference that sleeping pills were found in the room, suggesting an attempted suicide. The police reportedly continued to emphasize this theory until the post-mortem report, despite visible injuries on the body, leaving the family questioning why a thorough investigation was not conducted.

Allegations of Evidence Tampering and Collusion

The victim’s family and locals have raised concerns about possible collusion between police and hostel management. Allowing unauthorized personnel to collect the DVR and the three-day delay in investigating the scene are being viewed as violations of legal procedure. Questions are now being asked whether influential individuals were being protected, and whether crucial evidence was deliberately compromised.

The case continues to generate widespread concern about police accountability and the handling of sensitive investigations involving young students in Patna.