Bengaluru Home Minister Cautions Against Premature Conclusions in CJ Roy Death Case
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara addressed the media on Tuesday, emphasizing that it is currently "too early" to establish a connection between the tragic death of Confident Group chairman CJ Roy and alleged pressure from the Income Tax department, as claimed by his family members.
Awaiting Investigation Results Before Drawing Conclusions
Parameshwara stated, "Everything will be ascertained once the probe is completed. Until then, we can't arrive at any conclusion. It can't be said at this stage that the suicide was due to a particular reason." He highlighted that the Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed by the state government, has already initiated its investigation into the matter.
The minister elaborated on the SIT's approach, noting, "The team will record the statements of the family members and others, and we'll see what comes out." This systematic process aims to gather comprehensive evidence before making any definitive judgments regarding the circumstances surrounding Roy's death.
Response to Kerala CM's Query and Federal Jurisdiction
Parameshwara's remarks came in response to questions about a written query from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman concerning the case. He clarified, "I don't know the contents of the letter, but we should wait and see what decision is taken. The income tax department comes under the Union minister. I don't know whether she will order a judicial inquiry or any other probe."
This underscores the jurisdictional complexities, as the Income Tax department operates under central government authority, while the state government is conducting its own investigation through the SIT.
Background of the Incident and Family's Allegations
CJ Roy, a native of Kerala, was discovered deceased at his Bengaluru office on January 30 with bullet injuries. Police reports indicate he died by suicide while an Income Tax raid was in progress. Investigators detailed that Roy shot himself in the chest within his first-floor office chamber and was alone at the time of the incident.
Upon hearing the gunshot, I-T officials immediately entered the room and transported him to a hospital. In the aftermath, Roy's brother, CJ Babu, has publicly asserted that the businessman was under significant pressure due to the Income Tax department's proceedings, fueling speculation about the motives behind the suicide.
The case has drawn attention from both state and central authorities, highlighting the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the truth behind this unfortunate event.
