Anita Devi Death Case: Former SDO Ashok Kumar Declared Innocent by Complainant Brother in Affidavit

Hazaribagh, April 16, 2025: A surprising twist has emerged in the high-profile case involving the tragic death of Anita Devi, wife of former SDO Ashok Kumar. The incident, which took place on December 26, 2024, at the official residence of the then SDO on Jheel Road, Hazaribagh, had sparked public outcry, protests and legal action.

New Development in SDO Ashok Kumar Case Shakes Investigation

Initially, Rajkumar Gupta, brother of the deceased, had lodged an FIR at Lohsinghna Police Station, accusing Ashok Kumar of harassment and the alleged murder of his sister Anita Devi. He also participated in protests and the gherao of the police station, demanding immediate arrest and justice.

However, in a major U-turn, Gupta has now submitted a sworn affidavit in court, retracting his earlier statement. He claims that after conducting his own investigation and speaking with people familiar with the situation, he came to understand that Anita Devi died in an accidental fire, not by any deliberate act.

Sworn Affidavit Says Ashok Kumar Did Not Murder Anita Devi

According to Gupta’s statement submitted to the Hazaribagh Civil Court, his initial claims were made in a state of emotional distress. He has now clarified that Ashok Kumar neither tortured his wife nor caused her death. Instead, the fire was an accident, and he regrets filing the case.

This reversal in testimony could significantly influence the legal proceedings. Currently, Ashok Kumar is lodged in Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan Central Jail under judicial custody.

Arrest, Protests and Bail Rejection: Background of the High-Profile Case

Following the FIR and subsequent protests, Ashok Kumar was arrested from Ranchi. The incident drew significant media attention due to his stature as a former SDO. Political leaders, social workers and local citizens had demanded immediate justice, raising questions about domestic violence and abuse of power.

Ashok Kumar had applied for both anticipatory bail and regular bail, but the Hazaribagh District Court rejected both applications, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the initial statements made by the victim’s family.

Legal Implications of Rajkumar Gupta’s New Statement

With the primary witness and complainant now changing his stance, the prosecution may face challenges in establishing guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The new affidavit has also been submitted to senior police officials, and it is now up to the court to decide whether Ashok Kumar will benefit from this reversal and how soon he might be released.

Legal experts suggest that while the court is not bound to base its decision solely on a complainant’s retraction, such a dramatic shift may undermine the credibility of the initial charge. It also raises questions about the investigative process, the pressure faced by public officials and the mental health condition of individuals involved in such tragic cases.

Public Reaction and Awaited Verdict in SDO Anita Devi Death Case

The incident had previously sparked widespread reaction across Hazaribagh, with civil society calling for fair investigation and accountability. The allegation of domestic abuse by a public officer had intensified debates about official conduct and women’s safety.

With this unexpected development, all eyes are now on the judiciary and police, as they reevaluate the evidence, witness statements and medical reports. The autopsy and forensic findings, along with digital communications and testimonies, are expected to play a vital role in the final verdict.