In a quiet New Delhi suburb in 2008, a 14-year-old girl Aarushi was brutally murdered in her bedroom. The mysterious death shocked India and sparked a media frenzy. This book begins its narrative from the night of her murder, unfolding the events leading up to it and the subsequent investigation that followed. Sen examines, in detail, the impact of sensational journalism on public perception and the legal processes surrounding the case. Through a detailed account of the investigation’s missteps and public reactions, the book illustrates how a family’s tragedy became a national spectacle.
The ramifications of the case on Aarushi’s parents, Rajesh and Nupur Talwar, are detailed, as they were later accused of their daughter’s murder. Sen portrays their struggles to cope with grief while being thrust into a media storm and a flawed criminal justice system. Showcased is the way in which the Talwars were portrayed as guilty before due process could unfold, describing the challenges of seeking justice in a landscape rife with prejudice and speculation. The narrative also reflects on the issues of class, gender, and the power dynamics that were revealed during the trial.
The book raises critical questions about justice and accountability, examining the roles of law enforcement, media, and society in influencing public opinion. It challenges readers to think about the interplay of truth, bias, and morality in high-profile criminal cases. Reading this leaves you with a deep sadness at a system that is so deeply flawed that it seems unlikely that any justice will ever be served in this case, or indeed, in any case.