The News Freedom
Shimla, December 26
The Himachal Pradesh High Court bench, led by Chief Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua, has issued directives for the relocation of the state’s DGP Sanjay Kundu and Kangra Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri. This move aims to ensure an impartial investigation into a complaint lodged by a local businessman alleging threats to his life.
During the ruling, the court emphasized refraining from taking a stance on the case’s merits, citing ongoing investigations. Stressing the paramountcy of justice and the need for transparent proceedings, the court aimed to ensure both the reality and the perception of fairness in the investigation process.
The court recommended the relocation of the Director-General of Police, Himachal Pradesh, and the Kangra SP to guarantee an impartial investigation into the registered FIRs. Directing the Secretary (Home) to oversee their reassignment to different postings, the court highlighted the necessity for an environment conducive to an unbiased inquiry.
Businessman Nishant Sharma, in correspondence with the High Court, highlighted perceived threats to his life and his family’s safety, citing attacks in Gurugram, Haryana, and Mcleodganj. Sharma sought the court’s intervention, expressing a need for protection against influential individuals, fearing for his life.
Earlier, on November 16, the High Court instructed the Kangra Superintendent of Police to register an FIR based on the businessman’s complaint concerning threats to his life, family, and property. The court emphasized that filing the FIR should have preceded any investigative measures and directed the police to provide security to the complainant.