High Court Orders SIT Probe in Controversial Death During Banbhoolpura Riots

The Uttarakhand High Court has taken a significant step by ordering a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the contentious death of Faheem during the Banbhoolpura riots last year. This decision was catalyzed by the court's discontent with the initial police investigation, which it found 'strange and questionable.'

Led by Superintendent Jagdish Chandra, the SIT was formed to fulfill the high court's directive after Faheem's brother, Parvez, filed a public interest litigation (PIL) claiming the involvement of murder. The court called for a rigorous investigation and demanded transparency by requiring monthly progress reports.

The court expressed severe criticism of the previous investigation led by officer Neeraj Bhakuni, who was subsequently transferred. The bench was shocked by the overlooking of eyewitness accounts for non-eyewitness testimonies, urging a more thorough and unbiased inquiry.

(With inputs from agencies.)