New Delhi – Authorities have opened a criminal case after a 17‑year‑old girl was allegedly gang‑raped in the Astha Kunj area close to Delhi’s Kalkaji Temple. Three men were taken into custody, and one of them, 34‑year‑old Asif of Tughlakabad, sustained a gunshot wound during a police encounter and is now receiving treatment at AIIMS Trauma Centre.

How the incident unfolded

The victim and a minor male friend visited Kalkaji Temple for prayers and subsequently entered Astha Kunj Park through Gate No 7. According to police, three individuals approached the pair, claiming to be police officers, and threatened them.

The suspects allegedly separated the girl from her friend, led her to a secluded spot, and assaulted her. Asif is said to have brandished a weapon and forced the sexual violence, while the other two men participated in the attack. After the assault, the trio fled the scene, leaving the victim and her friend terrified.

Police response and subsequent encounter

Following a tip‑off, officers from Amar Colony Police Station rushed to Astha Kunj, rescued the girl, and rushed her to AIIMS for a medical examination. Crime‑scene investigators collected forensic evidence from the location.

Later, police tracked Asif to the DM Office Road in Amar Colony. When they attempted to apprehend him, Asif allegedly opened fire, discharging three rounds. One bullet struck the bullet‑proof vest of Head Constable Rajesh, prompting the constable to return fire in self‑defence. A shot hit Asif’s leg, and he was immediately taken to AIIMS Trauma Centre. The remaining two accused have also been arrested.

Legal proceedings

An FIR has been lodged, and a comprehensive investigation is underway. Officials have confirmed the victim’s age as between 16 and 17 years, and her medical report is being processed. Interrogations of the accused are ongoing to reconstruct the full sequence of events.