Soujanya case: Karnataka names Chetan Singh Rathore as SIT chief

Mangaluru: The Karnataka government has reconstituted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to reinvestigate the rape and murder of a minor girl, Soujanya, in Belthangady, a case that has triggered widespread public attention across the state.

The Home Department has issued an amended order appointing CID Inspector General of Police Chetan Singh Rathore as the new SIT chief, replacing senior IPS officer N. Shashikumar, who was heading the team earlier.

The government has also appointed Hassan Additional Superintendent of Police Srinidhi as a member of the SIT in place of Venkatesh Prasanna, who was previously part of the investigation team.

Order amends original govt order of Sept 24

The revised order was issued on October 30, amending the original government order dated September 24, 2026, which had constituted the team for the fresh investigation. The amendment was issued by S. Ambika, Under Secretary to the Government, Home Department (Crimes).

According to the revised order, Rathore, who is currently serving as IGP, CID, Bengaluru, will take over the leadership of the SIT. Srinidhi, serving as Additional SP in the Hassan district, will replace Venkatesh Prasanna, who was posted as Additional SP in the Bengaluru Rural district.

The government has clarified that there will be no changes to the other officers in the investigation team. Their existing responsibilities and positions will remain unchanged.

The SIT was constituted following demands from the public and the victim’s family for an impartial and comprehensive reinvestigation into the case. The government has now made the changes to the team leadership and membership to ensure continuity in the probe.

Shashikumar had reportedly submitted a request seeking to be relieved from the investigation team. Following this, the government appointed Rathore to lead the SIT, aiming to ensure that the investigation proceeds without delay.

The reconstitution is expected to enable the team to continue its examination of the case under the new leadership.

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