The Supreme Court of India, in a recent judgment, expressed its deep concerns over the evident lapses in police investigations. This came to light when the apex court had to acquit three individuals accused of murder and kidnapping. Notably, two of these accused had previously been handed the death penalty, a decision which the Supreme Court subsequently overturned.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the Court remarked on the investigative approach, stating,
“the manner in which the police tailored their investigation, with complete indifference to the truth.”
Such glaring oversights in the investigative process, the Court emphasized, compromise the justice system, potentially allowing the guilty to evade punishment due to technicalities.
Given these alarming circumstances, the Supreme Court underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive
“Code of Investigation”
for the police force. This proposed code aims to ensure that investigations are conducted with precision and integrity, preventing the guilty from escaping justice due to procedural errors.
This call to action by the Supreme Court underscores the judiciary’s growing concerns about the quality and thoroughness of police investigations. The introduction and adherence to a standardized investigative code could significantly enhance the credibility of police investigations, ensuring that justice is delivered effectively and without hindrance.
