New Delhi: In a significant development, the High Court of Punjab and Haryana has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation of a case involving alleged cheating by a former Assistant Drugs Controller of Himachal Pradesh, Nishant Sareen, among others.
The case came to light following allegations that the official, despite being directed by the Supreme Court to surrender to the trial court within four weeks, continued to attend office. This act of defiance raised questions about the support he might have received from the investigating agency handling the case.
The High Court’s decision was influenced by the petitioner’s counsel highlighting potential obstructions in the investigation, including the frequent reassignment of Investigating Officers, especially before court hearings. The court observed these actions as deliberate attempts to impede the judicial process.
Acknowledging the gravity of the accusations, which include complicity of police officers, the High Court deemed it necessary for an independent body like the CBI to conduct a fair and unbiased investigation.
“Taking into consideration the entire facts of the case and very serious allegations made against all the respondents including police officers, it is a fit case where the investigation has to be handed over to an independent agency like CBI for the purpose of fair and unbiased investigation,” the court noted in the order.
This order marks a pivotal move towards ensuring the integrity of the judicial system and upholding the rule of law. The CBI’s involvement is expected to bring transparency to the proceedings and address the serious allegations leveled against the respondents.
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