The BRICS TimesThe Supreme Court has strongly criticized Maharashtra Police over negligence and bias in probing the 2023 Akola riots. The court directed the Home Secretary to form an SIT with senior officials from both communities. The petitioner accused the police of inaction and ignoring medical evidence. The court stressed that officers must rise above caste and religion while serving their duty.
Supreme Court Questions Police Conduct
The Supreme Court rebuked Maharashtra Police for failing to properly investigate an assault case linked to the 2023 Akola riots. The court made it clear that once an officer wears the uniform, he must rise above religion, caste, or any other bias and act strictly according to the law.
During the hearing, the bench directed the Maharashtra Home Secretary to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by senior officials from both Hindu and Muslim communities to ensure a fair probe.
Why Did the Court Issue a Stern Warning?
The court’s remarks came in response to a petition that demanded action against police officers accused of negligence and bias during the Akola riots in May 2023. The petitioner sought criminal proceedings against officers who failed to discharge their duties and conducted a partisan investigation.
What Happened in Akola in 2023?
On 13 May 2023, Akola witnessed communal clashes between two groups, leading to the death of one person and injuries to eight others. Initially, the police registered six FIRs in connection with the violence.
One of the seriously injured victims, Mohammad Afzal Mohammad Sharif, later moved the Supreme Court. His petition alleged that police failed to conduct a proper investigation and even ignored crucial medical reports that highlighted the severity of his injuries. He claimed that flaws in the police investigation deprived victims of justice.
The petition also pointed out that Afzal, despite being an injured eyewitness, was deliberately excluded from the list of prosecution witnesses. It alleged that the officers’ conduct clearly indicated malafide intent. Taking serious note of these concerns, the Supreme Court pulled up Maharashtra Police for their handling of the case.
Court’s Firm Stand
The apex court emphasized that police officers cannot allow personal prejudice or social divides to influence their duty. “After wearing the uniform, a person must rise above caste and religion,” the court stated while stressing accountability and impartiality in law enforcement.
