Shoddy probe: HC rap for cops

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Maharashtra Police for conducting an improper probe into the death of Kolhapur resident Abhijit Langar (20) in 2007, reports Urvi Mahajani.

The Bombay High Court (HC) on Tuesday came down heavily on the Maharashtra Police for conducting an improper probe into the death of Kolhapur resident Abhijit Langar (20) in 2007.

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“...We are of the opinion that the investigation officer tried to shield the real accused,” said Justice Bilal Nazki.

The court was hearing a petition by the father of the deceased, Hanmant Langar (47).

Two people were arrested but no motive was attached to them in the chargesheet. Langar went to court after the police failed to probe the involvement of his neighbour, Vasant Dhotre, whom he suspected to be responsible for his son’s death.

“The chargesheet filed is on the basis of evidence which may not ultimately secure conviction,” the court said. “This was done deliberately (by investigating officer Police Inspector Nitin Jagtap) to shield the accused. Affidavit by home secretary becomes necessary.”

“The Criminal Investigation Department should be asked to carry out further investigation in the matter,” said Niteen Pradhan, who was appointed amicus curie (friend of court)

Jagtap’s counsel Ashok Mundargi argued that while filing the chargesheet, the officer had made an application to the trial court, seeking permission for further investigation. “However, he was later transferred,” said Mundargi.