In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has expressed its satisfaction with the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the high-profile Sabarimala gold heist case. The court dismissed all allegations raised against the investigation and the inclusion of two specific officers in the team, affirming that the probe is proceeding strictly in accordance with the law.
Court Rejects Allegations, Praises SIT Officers
The High Court made it clear that although objections had been raised from certain quarters questioning the integrity of the concerned officers, it had received reports stating they are competent, trustworthy, and industrious. The bench observed that without strengthening the team with such officers, it may not be possible to conduct an effective and timely investigation into the serious crime.
The court recalled an earlier order where it had made the SIT directly answerable to it. That order had mandated that the investigation be carried out with the highest degree of discretion, integrity, and confidentiality, without divulging any sensitive information to the public or the media.
HC Warns Against "Trial by Media" and Unwarranted Pressure
Despite these clear and strict directives, the High Court noted with concern recent reports indicating that the SIT is being subjected to unwarranted pressure. This pressure, the court stated, comes from misleading, speculative, and unfounded reports aired on sections of mainstream media as well as social media platforms.
The bench pointed out that certain narratives appear to have been deliberately crafted, making baseless imputations against the investigating officers. It stated this was evidently done for the sake of sensationalism and optics, without any regard for the factual matrix or the actual progress of the investigation.
Strong Observations on Media Interference
The court issued a stern warning about the consequences of such reportage. "It is necessary to observe that such reportage, particularly in matters under active judicial supervision, has the potential to undermine the integrity of the investigation, erode public confidence in institutions, and interfere with the fair administration of criminal justice," the High Court said.
Emphasizing the gravity of the case, which involves serious allegations and matters of public faith, the court underscored that investigations cannot be conducted under the shadow of a trial by media. The observations serve as a strong reminder of the legal boundaries for media coverage in sub-judice matters.
