Kathua rape accused against case transfer; victim's dad hails move; updates

Kathua rape case: CJI-led bench orders trial to be held in-camera, as per provisions of Ranbir Penal Code, applicable in J&K

The Supreme Court on Monday ordered that the trial in the sensational gangrape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in Kathua be shifted out of Jammu and Kashmir to neighbouring Punjab, holding fair trial was "sacrosant" and cannot be allowed to "co-exist" with fear. The court said an in-camera trial was being ordered to ensure that witnesses feel protected and the accused feel safe. The top court said it would monitor the case and its trial from time to time and posted the matter for next hearing on July 9.

"Fair trial is sacrosanct principle under Article 21 (right to