The Telangana High Court in Hyderabad has taken up a significant petition concerning the safety of a legal professional involved in a high-profile examination controversy. On Monday, the court directed the state government to clarify its stance on a plea filed by advocate and Congress party worker Bommaraju Narsing, who is seeking urgent police protection due to persistent threats against his life.
Court Directs State to Respond to Protection Plea
A bench presided over by Justice N Tukaramji issued the directive during a hearing where Narsing presented his case. The court asked the assistant government pleader representing the Home department to seek instructions from the state authorities and provide a detailed explanation. The matter has been adjourned and scheduled for further hearing on February 9, 2024, allowing time for the government to prepare its response.
Background of Threats Linked to Group-I Exam Controversy
Bommaraju Narsing informed the court that the threats he faces are directly connected to his active involvement in exposing alleged irregularities in the Group-I preliminary examination conducted in 2023. This examination was cancelled twice following petitions filed in the High Court, with Narsing playing a key role in highlighting the malpractices.
He detailed that candidates who had cleared the prelims before its cancellation have been targeting him through various social media platforms. These individuals have allegedly issued repeated threats, creating a genuine fear for his safety and well-being.
Alleged Police Inaction Despite Multiple Appeals
Narsing argued before the court that despite submitting numerous representations to the police authorities seeking action against those threatening him and requesting protective measures, no concrete steps have been taken. He emphasized that even after the Governor of Telangana forwarded his representation to the Director General of Police, there has been no response or protective action initiated by the law enforcement agencies.
The advocate contended that this inaction leaves him vulnerable and underscores systemic failures in addressing genuine security concerns of citizens engaged in legal and public interest activities.
Legal Proceedings and Government's Position
During the hearing, the assistant government pleader representing the state requested additional time to obtain proper instructions from the concerned departments. The court recorded submissions from both parties and proceeded to adjourn the case while maintaining the urgency of the protection plea.
This case highlights broader issues of witness and activist protection within the legal framework, particularly when individuals challenge established systems or expose irregularities in public examinations. The Telangana High Court's intervention underscores the judiciary's role in ensuring citizen safety and holding authorities accountable for addressing legitimate security threats.
The outcome of this petition could set important precedents regarding police responsiveness and protection mechanisms for those involved in exposing corruption or malpractices in government processes. Legal experts are closely monitoring the developments, as the February 9 hearing approaches.
