MEERUT: Police have launched an inquiry against Brahmpuri station house officer (SHO) Ramakant Pachori for failing to seal the room of Sahil Shukla, one of the accused in the gruesome murder of former merchant navy officer Saurabh Rajput.
The oversight has raised concerns about potential evidence tampering, particularly after videos from inside the room began circulating despite the accused’s phones being in police custody.
Investigators had discovered tantric symbols, satanic graffiti, and cryptic writings in Shukla’s room, suggesting a connection to black magic. However, the room was not secured following his arrest.
A senior officer said, “We are looking into whether this was an act of negligence or intentional misconduct. Given the nature of the crime, preserving all possible evidence is crucial.”
Both Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla remain in judicial custody. Rastogi has requested government-appointed legal assistance after her family withdrew support.
Jail SSP Dr Viresh Raj Sharma stated, “Muskan personally requested legal aid, as her family is angry with her. It is her right to have a lawyer if no one is representing her in court.”
Shukla has declined government legal assistance, hoping his parents might support his defense.
Jail officials report both accused are experiencing severe drug withdrawal symptoms. Rastogi has been requesting injections, while Shukla shows increased agitation for marijuana. They are being held separately, receiving anti-addiction treatment.
The drug department conducted a raid at Usha Medical Store in Khair Nagar. Drug inspector Piyush Sharma said: “We are investigating the store’s records. If we find any irregularities in the sale of medicines, an FIR will be lodged, or the licence will be revoked.”
Police investigations have revealed Rastogi and Shukla reconnected in 2019 and began using drugs together. Rajput was allegedly murdered on March 4 in his rented Brahmpuri apartment after returning from London for his wife’s birthday.
The victim’s severed head and remains were concealed in a cement-filled drum for approximately two weeks. Following the murder, the accused reportedly took a 12-day vacation in Himachal Pradesh.
Meerut SSP Dr Vipin Tada was unavailable for comment on the investigation into the room sealing oversight.
The authorities are expected to take action against those responsible for the procedural lapse in securing the crime scene.
