In a significant legal development, the Meghalaya High Court has nullified both the First Information Report (FIR) and subsequent chargesheet filed against Dr. Lajja Ram Bishnoi, the former Director General of Police (DGP) of Meghalaya. The case centered on allegations of misuse and tampering with the registration number of his official vehicle.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy began on May 9, 2024, when suspended police officer Gabriel K. Iangrai lodged an FIR against DGP Bishnoi. Iangrai accused Bishnoi of operating a Kia Carnival Limousine bearing the registration number "ML-02-A-0001," which, according to transport department records, was assigned to a Hyundai Verna registered under the Meghalaya Police. This discrepancy led to allegations of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, forgery, and cheating against the DGP. Iangrai further contended that the luxury vehicle, valued at approximately ₹40 lakh, exceeded the permissible limit of ₹12 lakh for official use by the DGP. He also claimed that the vehicle's number plate had been altered without proper authorization.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
In response to the FIR, DGP Bishnoi approached the Meghalaya High Court, seeking to quash the allegations. He argued that the vehicle in question was duly requisitioned and that the registration number was used for security reasons, a practice not uncommon in law enforcement to prevent potential threats. Bishnoi's legal team emphasized that the FIR was filed with vindictive intent, especially considering Iangrai's suspension and prior disciplinary actions during Bishnoi's tenure. They also highlighted that the charges under Section 192 of the Motor Vehicles Act pertained to a non-cognizable offense, questioning the jurisdiction and authority of the police to investigate and file a chargesheet on such grounds.
High Court's Rationale and Decision
Upon reviewing the case, Justice Biswadeep Bhattacharjee of the Meghalaya High Court observed that while the vehicle was used with a registration number assigned to a different police vehicle, there was no concrete evidence indicating that this action was taken under Bishnoi's direct instructions. The court noted that the petitioner had the necessary approval to use the vehicle, but no specific Meghalaya registration number had been allotted to it. Given the lack of substantive proof linking Bishnoi to any intentional wrongdoing, the court concluded that the allegations did not satisfy the essential ingredients required under Section 192 of the Motor Vehicles Act, which deals with the use of vehicles without proper registration. Consequently, the court quashed both the FIR and the chargesheet, providing relief to the former DGP.
Implications of the Verdict
This judgment underscores the judiciary's role in safeguarding individuals from potentially malicious prosecutions, especially those arising from internal disputes within law enforcement agencies. The case also highlights the complexities involved in administrative practices, such as vehicle requisitioning and registration within police departments, and the importance of clear protocols to prevent misunderstandings. Furthermore, the verdict serves as a reminder of the necessity for thorough and unbiased investigations before leveling serious allegations against high-ranking officials.
In summary, the Meghalaya High Court's decision to quash the FIR and chargesheet against Dr. Lajja Ram Bishnoi brings an end to a contentious legal battle, reaffirming the principles of justice and due process.
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