Dissatisfied,SC slams UP in Lakhimpur Kheri case

The Supreme Court has  expressed its dissatisfaction over the investigation conducted by the UP state government in the Lakhimpur Keri violence case. During the hearing on Friday, the court  came down heavily on the UP government and said that law must take its course against "whoever is involved". A bench headed by Chief Justice NV Ramana. Justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli,  asked the UP government to direct its state police chief to ensure that the evidence in the case is protected till the time another agency takes over.

The top court also questioned the state government over not arresting the accused against whom FIR has been lodged. It then asked whether it treats "accused the same way in other murder cases in the country." "What is the message you are sending," asked the bench. The UP government on the other hand informed the court that Ashish Misra has sought more time to appear before the police for questioning and the government has given him time till 11 am on Saturday. If fail to appear before the police on Saturday, an arrest warrant will be sought, said UP govt. 

“Will also look into alternatives of conducting an investigation. Will communicate to the highest officials of the state to protect the evidence,” said senior advocate Harish Salve who appeared for the UP government. The court pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government and asked, “What does the police do when an offence under Section 302 is alleged? Why is there no arrest in this case? The police investigation is unsatisfactory.” The Supreme court has posted the matter for hearing on October 20.