Rathore tried to influence investigation: Ex-CBI official

NEW DELHI - A former joint director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Sunday alleged that former Haryana Police chief S.P.S. Rathore, convicted for molesting 14-year-old Ruchika, tried to influence him and the investigation team.

“He used to come to my chamber and even call up at my residence. He used to offer me favours at various joints. He also tried to influence my investigation team,” R.M. Singh, who headed the probe, told reporters.

“I have included that he should be booked under the charges of abetment to suicide. What had happened later, I don’t know because the file had gone to higher officers and Mr. Rathore came to know about my recommendations,” he added.

The officer said he later learned that his recommendations were not included in the chargesheet.

A special CBI court in Chandigarh had Monday held Rathore guilty of molesting Ruchika in Panchkula town Aug 12, 1990 and sentenced him to a six-month prison term.

The budding tennis player had committed suicide three years after the incident. Rathore was exonerated from the charges of abetment to suicide.

The CBI spokesman was not available to comment on the allegations.