CBI to probe alleged gang-rape of 19-year-old woman who died of injuries

India’s federal police will investigate the alleged gang rape of a young woman in northern Uttar Pradesh state whose death sparked nationwide protests, Reuters reported.

The 19-year-old Dalit woman died of her injuries earlier this week, triggering protests.

The chief minister of Uttar Pradesh state, which is ruled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party, has asked federal police, the Central Bureau of Investigation, to investigate the alleged rape, which occurred in its Hathras district, a government statement cited by Reuters said.

Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has faced criticism in recent days for not allowing media and opposition parties to speak with the family of the dead woman.

Public criticism grew after the family of the victim said her body had been cremated by police without their consent, an allegation officials deny.