CBI Not A Solution For Reasons Best Known : Supreme Court On Lakhimpur Kheri Violence Probe
While expressing dissatisfaction at the investigation being done by the Uttar Pradesh Police on the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, the Supreme Court on Friday remarked that handing over the probe to the Central Bureau of Investigation also may not be a solution, because of the persons involved.The prime accused in the case is Ashish Mishra, who happens to be son of BJP leader and Union Minister...
While expressing dissatisfaction at the investigation being done by the Uttar Pradesh Police on the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, the Supreme Court on Friday remarked that handing over the probe to the Central Bureau of Investigation also may not be a solution, because of the persons involved.
The prime accused in the case is Ashish Mishra, who happens to be son of BJP leader and Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Kumar Mishra.
A bench led by the Chief Justice of India was considering a PIL, registered on a letter petition sent by two lawyers. The bench expressed unhappiness over the fact that the UP Police has not yet arrested the prime accused, and has instead issued him only a summons.
"We expect this to be a responsible government. When there is a serious allegations of murder and gun shot injury..how the accused in other parts of the country are treated? Sending notice like please come please tell us?", the CJI asked Senior Advocate Harish Salve, who was appearing for the State of UP.
"Mr.Salve, we have respect for you. We hope the state will take necessary steps. Because of the sensitivity of the issue, we are not making any comments. And CBI may not be a solution for reasons you better know...because of persons..better some other mode you find out, we'll take up immediately after vacation", the CJI said.
Salve admitted that what "they(UP Police) is done a hash" and should have done better to "instill confidence".
The bench dictated the following order :
"We've heard Sr Adv Harish Salve. The learned senior counsel explained the various steps taken filed by State & status report was also filed. However we are not satisfied by steps taken by state. The learned senior counsel has ensured that steps will be taken by next date, to satisfy this court and alternatives will be considered to have investigation by another agencies. In that view, we're not inclined to go in detail, list after vacation. Meanwhile, he has ensured that he will communicate to highest police officer in the state to take steps to protect evidence and other materials".
The case will be next considered on October 20.
For detailed report of the exchange, refer this : Lakhmipur Kheri Violence : Supreme Court 'Not Satisfied' With UP Police Probe; Asks 'Is This The Way You Treat Accused In Other Murder Cases?By Sending Summons?'