The Bombay High Court has raised serious concerns regarding a police report filed by a Chembur police officer, suggesting that the investigation into a caste certificate case was conducted in a manner that favored the accused. During a recent hearing, Justices Ajey Gadkari and Kamal Khata criticized the actions of the investigating officer, indicating that there was a prima facie attempt to protect the interests of the accused, Ramesh Suresh Kamble.
This case revolves around allegations that Kamble, a former BMC corporator, falsely claimed Scheduled Caste status to contest elections. The petition, filed by advocate Chitra Salunke, accused the police of conducting a lackadaisical investigation aimed at benefiting Kamble, who had previously faced invalidation of his caste certificate by the Caste Scrutiny Committee.
The court questioned the timing of the police's actions, noting that the investigation, which commenced on April 2, was left incomplete for nearly five months. Following the court's expressions of concern on September 1, the investigating officer submitted a lengthy C-summary report shortly before the matter was set to be readdressed.
- Police report criticized by the court — the High Court highlighted the apparent bias in the investigation.
- Allegations against Ramesh Suresh Kamble — former BMC corporator accused of caste certificate fraud.
- Call for a detailed affidavit — the court directed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to address the allegations personally.
The judges pointed out that the C-summary report seemed to reiterate the findings of the Caste Scrutiny Committee without adequately investigating the allegations of fraud and financial benefits. They characterized the officer's conduct as “wholly unconscionable,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to frustrate the petitioner's legal remedy.
The court has mandated that the Mumbai Police Commissioner file a detailed affidavit regarding the police investigation by October 21. This case continues to unfold, and the court’s scrutiny highlights the need for accountability in police investigations, especially in cases involving sensitive issues like caste certification.
