The Supreme Court has expressed strong displeasure over the conduct of the Delhi Police and the slow pace of investigation regarding alleged excesses during public protests. During the proceedings, CJI Surya Kant made it clear that the court cannot wait indefinitely for complaints to trickle in. Taking a stern view of the serious allegations of police brutality and harsh action, the court issued an ultimatum to the high-powered committee, ruling out any further delays or excuses.
One-Month Timeline for Initial Fact-Finding Report
The top court has directed the high-powered committee to submit its first fact-finding report within a period of one month. The bench stated that all material and evidence brought to light so far must be thoroughly examined. Additionally, the committee has been asked to seek responses from the concerned police officers to ensure their perspective is recorded. The panel was instructed to begin reporting on two prioritized issues without any delay.
Personal Appearance of Victims Not Mandatory
A significant direction from the hearing is that victims are not required to present themselves personally before the committee. If lawyers, activists, or public-spirited individuals have submitted documents, petitions, video footage, or digital proofs, the panel must mandatory evaluate them. This decision ensures that the absence of a victim in person will not halt the inquiry into the allegations.
Court Review of October 31 Report and Next Hearing
Addressing the previous submission made on October 31, the Supreme Court observed that it was merely a status report lacking any concrete conclusions regarding the allegations of police excess. CJI Surya Kant indicated that investigation findings should generally be shared with all involved parties, though secrecy could be maintained under exceptional circumstances. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for two weeks later, while keeping a close watch on the committee's progress ahead of its one-month deadline.
