In a significant development in a dowry harassment case in Kanpur, a local court has recommended disciplinary action against IPS officer Sumit Ramteke, who was serving as ACP Swarup Nagar at the time of investigation, after raising concerns over alleged procedural irregularities in the case.
The court has also summoned four accused, including the complainant’s husband and his family members, after reviewing objections against the police chargesheet.
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Court Questions Handling of Investigation
The case stems from a complaint filed by Nikita Jaiswal, a software engineer from Geeta Nagar in Kanpur, who alleged dowry harassment and assault after her marriage to Ayush Gupta in Delhi on November 16, 2024.
Following her return to Kanpur, Nikita lodged an FIR at Kakadev police station on September 21, 2025, naming her husband, mother-in-law, father-in-law, sister-in-law and maternal uncle-in-law.
According to court proceedings, the first investigating officer had prepared a chargesheet against three accused — the husband, mother-in-law and father-in-law — and sent it to the ACP’s office.
Fresh Probe Ordered, Chargesheet Narrowed
However, while serving as ACP Swarup Nagar, Sumit Ramteke reportedly reassigned the case to another investigating officer and ordered further investigation.
The second officer subsequently filed a chargesheet naming only the husband, dropping the other accused.
This prompted the complainant’s counsel to challenge the chargesheet in court, alleging that the names of other accused had been removed without sufficient grounds.
Four Family Members Summoned
After examining the case records and objections raised by the complainant, the court found sufficient grounds to summon four accused — husband Ayush Gupta, mother-in-law Alka, father-in-law Deepak and maternal uncle Ashwani Sharma.
They have been directed to appear before the court on July 31.
The court’s observations have put the earlier investigation process under scrutiny.
Disciplinary Action Sought Against IPS Officer
In a serious observation, the court has sent a copy of its order to the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Principal Secretary, Home Department, Uttar Pradesh, recommending disciplinary proceedings against Sumit Ramteke for his role in the matter.
The authorities have been asked to submit a report on the action taken.
Spotlight on Investigation Accountability
The case has once again brought focus on accountability in criminal investigations, especially in sensitive cases involving allegations of dowry harassment and domestic violence.
The court’s intervention is being seen as a reminder of judicial oversight in ensuring fair investigation and justice for complainants.
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