Delhi Court chastises police for improperly merging riot complaints

Delhi’s Karkardooma Court criticised the police for consolidating three other complaints into a Delhi riots case without thorough investigation. Additional Sessions Judge Pulastaya Pramachala highlighted the lack of evidence in the initial charge sheet, which combined eight additional complaints from different times.
Charges have been framed against two accused, Firoz Khan alias Pappu and Mohd Anwar, for several offences, including those under sections 148/380/427/451 and 188 IPC. However, ASJ Pramachala expressed concerns over the Investigating Officer’s (IO) negligence in professionally examining incidents, particularly at the shops of Kafil Ahmed, Eshak, and Mukhtiyaz Ali.
The court emphasised the necessity of having concrete evidence when combining complaints. There was specific mention of the absence of evidence regarding Chhidda Lal Tomar’s property being set ablaze, with only an arson attempt being reported.
The unresolved grievances of eight other complainants were also noted, urging the police to bring each complaint to a conclusive end. The court has referred the unresolved cases back to the SHO for further investigation. The DCP (North East) was directed to review the IO’s approach and take necessary action.