The National Investigation Agency arrested former TMC MLA Saokat Molla in connection with the Bhangar bomb blast case, identifying him as a key conspirator. Molla was apprehended during a late-night operation in South 24 Parganas, becoming the fourth person arrested in the investigation.
The Allahabad High Court raised concerns over policing and governance in Uttar Pradesh, observing that sections of the police machinery appear more loyal to the ruling establishment than the Constitution. The Court highlighted issues relating to the Gangsters Act, administrative accountability, encounter killings, selective crackdowns, and alleged misuse of police powers.
The Madras High Court quashed criminal proceedings against two men, holding that merely questioning the legality of police action cannot constitute a criminal offence unless the essential ingredients of the alleged offences are clearly established. The Court found the accusations vague and legally insufficient.
The Supreme Court emphasized that individuals involved in drug trafficking and narcotics-related activities must be dealt with firmly, observing that drug offenders are repeatedly destroying the lives of the country’s youth across generations and posing a serious threat to society and public welfare.
The Karnataka High Court, while hearing a rape accused’s bail plea, expressed concern over rising serious crimes and diminishing fear of legal consequences. Justice R Nataraj stressed the need for stronger enforcement of criminal laws, observing that deterrence within the justice system appears to be weakening.
The Allahabad High Court held that a candidate facing serious criminal charges cannot be regarded as suitable for appointment to a disciplined force like civil police, even when pending cases truthfully disclosed in the application form.
The Supreme Court has granted bail to Mohammad Kashif in a money laundering case. He was accused of posing as a close aide of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Union ministers to allegedly extort money from people.
The Enforcement Directorate asked the West Bengal government’s Director of Securities to ensure that absconding Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Santanu Sinha Biswas appears for questioning in money laundering cases. The agency said his presence is important for investigation.
A senior partner at a prominent Mumbai-based law firm, booked under the POCSO Act for allegedly sexually abusing his minor daughter, is facing fresh controversy. The child’s mother has now alleged “systemic failure” and serious lapses in the investigation by authorities.
The Supreme Court has directed that a meeting be held on May 6 to review how states have used the allocated funds meant for installing CCTV cameras in police stations. The Court seeks full compliance and transparency now.
