The recent allegations against the Director General of Police (DGP) in Goa have sparked controversies and raised questions about the impartiality of the ongoing investigation. The role of the Superintendent of Police (SP) in conducting an inquiry into the Assagao demolition case, while being a part of the same police force, has been met with skepticism. This situation calls for a fair and unbiased investigation, which can only be achieved if conducted by a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge.
The matter becomes even more critical as the allegations are directed at a high-ranking officer like the DGP. It is essential for the investigation to be free from any potential influence or bias, and the involvement of lower-ranking officers in probing their superiors adds to the scepticism surrounding the investigation’s fairness.
DGP Jaspal Singh has vehemently denied the allegations levelled against him, dismissing them as baseless and preposterous. With the opposition calling for a CBI or judicial probe into the matter, the need for an independent and thorough investigation cannot be understated. The involvement of a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge is crucial to ensure transparent and impartial proceedings.
The situation has triggered a political storm, with the Chief Minister being asked to take action against the DGP.
Additionally, the alleged pressure exerted by the DGP on a subordinate to refrain from taking action regarding the illegal demolition of the house further raises concerns about the integrity of the investigation.
It is evident that the involvement of the DGP in the ongoing investigation could compromise its fairness and transparency. Therefore, the decision to entrust the inquiry to a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge is imperative to uphold the principles of justice and maintain public trust in the legal system.
Furthermore, the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the initiation of a high-level inquiry led by the chief secretary affirm the seriousness of the allegations and the need for a comprehensive investigation.
The question here arises can a Superintendent of Police conduct an impartial investigation against the Director General of Police when he is still in charge of the police force?
Seems strange but that seems to be the case here.
Crime Branch SP Rahul Gupta says his department is conducting an inquiry into the Assagao demolition case. He says the statement by Anjuna PI is unsubstantiated as it is not signed.
The question is how did the SP get the statement from? Who gave him the Chief Secretary’s report?
There is no way he can probe allegations against high-ranked officers like DGP.
It is important here that only a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge conducts the inquiry against such a top officer.
The allegations against the Goa DGP demand a meticulous and unbiased inquiry, which can only be guaranteed under the oversight of a retired High Court or Supreme Court judge. The integrity of the investigation must be preserved, and the public’s confidence in the legal process must be upheld. Therefore, it is essential for the authorities to consider the recommendation for a retired judge to lead the probe and ensure justice prevails in this sensitive matter.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
