New Delhi, Oct. 8: While hearing the petition taken up to address the Lakhimpur Kheri incident in which eight persons were killed, the Supreme Court today expressed an unfavourable opinion of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The Bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana and Justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli had initially asked counsel appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government, Senior Advocate Harish Salve, whether the State government has asked the CBI to take over the investigation in the matter, reports Bar and Bench.
Salve replied,
“Entirely in your lordships’ hand. The State has not made such a request. Please have this on reopening. If you are not satisfied with the progress, hand it over to CBI.”
It was at this point that CJI Ramana said,
“Mr Salve, we have respect for you. We hope the State will take necessary steps due to the sensitivity of the issue. We are not making comments. CBI is not a solution for reasons known to you…because of the persons…better some other person look into (the case).”
Ashish Mishra, the son of Union Minister of State Ajay Mishra, is accused of mowing down and killing protesting farmers with his vehicle. Salve had earlier told the Court that a notice had been sent to Mishra to appear before the authorities at 11 AM tomorrow.
“Is it the same way we treat other accused too? By sending notices etc,” CJI Ramana asked.
The CJI added,
“This is the opinion of the Bench…this is a responsible State government and police. When there is a serious allegation of death or gun shot injury, will other accused in this country be treated the same way?”
The Court ultimately said that it would hear the matter after the Dussehra vacation and directed the State to preserve the evidence in the case till then.
