In a significant development, the Supreme Court has directed an inquiry and criminal action against state officials following shocking allegations of assault made by a prosecution witness during a hearing. The Bench, comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, issued this directive while hearing the case of a petitioner-accused challenging a Rajasthan High Court order denying bail. The Court was alarmed by the deposition of the witness, PW-2, who accused police officials of coercion and violence during the investigation. As a result, the Court not only allowed the petitioner’s appeal for bail but also directed immediate inquiry and action by the Director General of Police (DGP), Rajasthan, emphasizing the seriousness of the misconduct.
The petitioner-accused, involved in a case registered under various sections including Section 302 IPC and Sections 3, 5, 25 of the Arms Act, had been denied bail twice before, once by the High Court and once by the Supreme Court. However, during the course of the trial, serious allegations emerged from the deposition of PW-2, the daughter of the deceased-victim, who accused the petitioner of assault and coercion. The Court was particularly alarmed by her allegations against police officials, describing a harrowing experience of coercion and violence during interrogation, which went unchallenged.
In response to these revelations, the Supreme Court not only granted bail to the petitioner but also ordered an immediate inquiry and criminal action against the police personnel involved. The Court emphasized that such misconduct could not be tolerated and warranted swift and decisive action. It directed the DGP, Rajasthan, to initiate an inquiry and take both administrative and criminal action against the responsible officials. While the appeal was disposed of with these directives, the Court also scheduled a subsequent hearing to review the action taken report to be filed by the DGP.
This case highlights the importance of ensuring the integrity of the justice system and holding accountable those responsible for misconduct and abuse of power. The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals, even in the face of grave allegations against state officials. By ordering a thorough investigation and decisive action, the Court has taken a firm stand against impunity and injustice, sending a clear message that misconduct and abuse of power will not be tolerated in the administration of justice.
The decision also serves as a reminder of the critical role played by the judiciary in safeguarding the rights and liberties of citizens and ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. In cases where allegations of misconduct or abuse arise, it is essential for the judiciary to intervene promptly and decisively to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s directive for inquiry and action against police misconduct in response to shocking allegations of coercion and violence underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in the administration of justice. By taking swift and decisive action, the Court has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals, while also sending a clear message that misconduct and abuse of power will not be tolerated under any circumstances.