Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The state government has challenged the High Court’s order directing a CBI investigation into allegations of assault against Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials. The Supreme Court has not yet scheduled a hearing date in the matter.
FIR Filed Against ED Officials
The case stems from a complaint filed in January 2026 by Santosh Kumar, an आरोपी in a drinking water scam case. He lodged an FIR at the airport police station accusing two ED officials—Prateek and Shubham—of assaulting him with intent to kill, along with other charges.
ED Sought CBI Investigation
Following the FIR, the ED approached the High Court seeking a transfer of the investigation to the CBI, citing the need for an impartial probe. During the course of the case, police had surrounded the ED regional office, escalating tensions.
High Court Orders Neutral Probe
While hearing the matter, the High Court termed the issue serious and emphasized the need for a fair and independent investigation. It also made critical observations on the functioning of the police and directed that the ED office’s security be ensured by the Ranchi SSP, holding them accountable for any untoward incident.
CBI Registers Case, State Challenges Order
Acting on the High Court’s directive, the CBI’s Special Crime Branch in Delhi registered an FIR and initiated proceedings. Meanwhile, the state government has now moved the Supreme Court challenging the High Court’s decision to hand over the probe to the CBI.
