The Nithari Noida case is one of the most infamous and chilling criminal cases in India. It involves the serial murders and rapes of women and children in Nithari village, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, between 2005 and 20061.
Key Events:
- Discovery of Bodies: In December 2006, the remains of several missing children and women were found in a drain near a house owned by Moninder Singh Pandher in Sector-31, Noida. The house was referred to as the “House of Horrors” due to the gruesome nature of the crimes3.
- Arrests: Moninder Singh Pandher and his domestic help, Surinder Koli, were arrested on December 29, 2006. Koli confessed to the murders and rapes of several children and women2.
- Investigation and Trials: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over the case and filed chargesheets in 16 cases of rape, murder, abduction, and criminal conspiracy. Koli and Pandher were sentenced to death by a special CBI court in 20093.
- Acquittals: In October 2023, the Allahabad High Court acquitted both Koli and Pandher, citing lack of evidence. This was a significant turn in the case, as both had been sentenced to death earlier2.
Impact and Aftermath:
- Public Outrage: The case led to widespread public outrage and criticism of the local authorities for their initial negligence and alleged corruption.
- Legal Proceedings: The case saw numerous legal battles, including appeals and petitions, which prolonged the judicial process over the years.
- Reforms: The case highlighted the need for better law enforcement and child protection measures in India.
The Nithari case remains a dark chapter in India’s criminal history, and the acquittals have left many questions unanswered and families of the victims seeking justice2.