Patna High Court Declines Plea for Independent Judicial Probe into Medical Student's Death
The Patna High Court on Monday refused to entertain a petition seeking an independent judicial investigation into the suspicious death of a medical aspirant in Patna on January 11. The plea, filed by the father of the deceased student, requested a probe to be conducted by a retired Supreme Court or high court judge to ensure transparency and impartiality in the case.
Court's Rationale for Disposal of the Petition
A single bench of Justice Arun Kumar Jha disposed of the criminal writ application, observing that since the state government has already decided to hand over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), there is no need for judicial intervention at this stage. The court emphasized that the CBI probe should be allowed to proceed without interference, as it represents a significant step by the authorities to address the matter thoroughly.
Additional Security Concerns Raised by the Petitioner
In the writ petition, the father also sought directions from the high court to provide security to the entire family of the deceased medical aspirant by the Patna police. He alleged that the Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by the state government, has been harassing the family instead of arresting the culprits responsible for his daughter's death. This claim highlights ongoing tensions and fears within the family regarding their safety and the integrity of the investigation process.
State Counsel's Opposition to the Petition
State counsel Kinkar Kumar opposed the writ petition, arguing that it was filed at a premature stage. He submitted to the court that the victim's father initiated the criminal writ application before the CBI investigation could fully commence, suggesting that the judicial system should allow the established investigative procedures to unfold without premature legal challenges.
The case underscores broader issues of justice and accountability in sensitive criminal matters, particularly those involving young students and their families. The Patna High Court's decision reflects a cautious approach, prioritizing the ongoing CBI probe while leaving open the possibility for future judicial review if necessary. This development is closely watched by legal experts and the public, as it may set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future.
