India gang-rape suspects charged

Indian police today formally charged five men with murder, kidnapping and rape following the fatal gang-rape of a young woman that appalled the nation.

“We have filed the charge sheet against the five accused,” an investigating police officer told a magistrate hearing the case in the Saket court complex in New Delhi.

The five men, who could face the death penalty if convicted, were not present when the media was allowed into the courtroom.

Journalists were initially prevented from listening to proceedings, sparking chaotic scenes outside.

The men face at least seven charges — including murder, kidnapping, rape, robbery and attempting to destroy evidence.

The next hearing in the case was set for January 5.