A petition has been moved in the Supreme Court seeking the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged police encounter of Akshay Anna Shinde, the main accused in the Badlapur incident. Advocate Ghanshyam Upadhyay, who filed the plea, has also requested that a First Information Report (FIR) be lodged into the encounter, which has gained nationwide attention, particularly in Maharashtra, where it is now popularly referred to as the “Badlapur case.”
Call for SIT with Independent Officials
In his plea, Upadhyay stressed the need for an impartial investigation, suggesting the involvement of officials of unimpeachable character from various investigative agencies, including but not limited to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He expressed concerns about potential political interference, noting that the same political parties are in power at both the state and central levels. Upadhyay pointed out past instances where the CBI has been criticized as a “caged parrot,” influenced by those in power.
The petitioner has therefore requested that a retired Supreme Court judge head the SIT and that the investigation be monitored by the court to ensure transparency. He further urged strict action against those involved in the alleged encounter.
Body-Cam Surveillance for Law Enforcement
In addition to the SIT, Upadhyay’s petition calls for a directive to the central and state governments and Union Territories to implement constant body-cam surveillance for all law enforcement personnel while on duty. According to the petition, this measure would ensure accountability and transparency in police operations.
The petition seeks compliance reports from the concerned authorities to be submitted to the Supreme Court within a timeframe deemed appropriate by the court.