A local resident of Sri Niwaspuri has described the two brothers arrested in connection with the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old girl at Delhi’s Aastha Kunj Park as people who frequently created disturbances in the neighbourhood.
The comments come as police investigate the backgrounds of the three accused and examine whether they had previously harassed people in or around the park.
‘They would pick fights’
Speaking to Hindustan Times on condition of anonymity, a woman in her 40s from Sri Niwaspuri said the two brothers were neighbours but that residents generally avoided interacting with them.
“They would pick up fights over petty issues and create ruckus. Nobody wanted to talk to them.”
She also said that her family had started avoiding the brothers and that they were frequently seen at the park.
Police investigating earlier complaints
Police have said that Asif, one of the three accused, was reportedly known to park staff, guards and regular visitors. People had allegedly complained verbally about him carrying a knife and harassing couples, although investigators said no formal police complaint had been filed regarding those earlier allegations.
Police are now investigating whether the accused may have targeted other women or couples at the park and whether there was a similar pattern in previous incidents.
Accused were regular visitors to the park
According to police, Asif and his associates were regularly seen around Aastha Kunj, particularly at night. Investigators are examining CCTV footage, call records and statements from park staff and other people familiar with the area to reconstruct their movements.
Police have also alleged that the three men spent time looking for a potential target before approaching the teenage girl and her male friend. Investigators are examining whether the alleged attack was planned.
Digital evidence under examination
Police have seized the accused men’s mobile phones. Investigators reportedly found deleted media on some of the devices, while allegedly objectionable and pornographic material was found on Asif’s phone. The phones have been sent for forensic examination to determine whether the digital evidence has any connection to the case.
The discovery of such material, by itself, does not establish a connection to the alleged assault; that will depend on the forensic findings and other evidence.
Investigation continues
The case has also raised questions about security at the 142-acre Aastha Kunj Park, including patrolling and surveillance. Police are continuing to question local residents, park personnel and other witnesses while examining the accused’s movements and possible previous incidents.
The allegations against the accused remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.
