In a recent legal development, the Allahabad High Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the tragic stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela in Allahabad. The incident, which occurred on January 29, resulted in the loss of 30 lives and left 60 individuals injured.
The PIL was filed by Keshar Singh and two others, who not only requested a CBI probe but also urged the submission of a comprehensive report detailing irregularities and mismanagement during the Mahakumbh event. They emphasized the need to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the mishap.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra, found the petition lacking in specificity. They observed that the petitioners did not clearly indicate from whom they sought the comprehensive report on the Mahakumbh. Additionally, the court noted that the petition was primarily based on newspaper reports, which are considered hearsay and insufficient grounds for legal action.
Regarding the request for a CBI investigation and adequate compensation for the victims' families, the court highlighted that the Uttar Pradesh Government had already constituted an Inquiry Commission under the Commissions of Inquiry Act to investigate the stampede. The bench referenced its earlier observations in the case of Suresh Chandra Pandey vs. State of Uttar Pradesh and others, noting that the scope of the existing Inquiry Commission was comprehensive enough to address the concerns raised in the PIL.
The court further remarked that initiating a new inquiry at this stage, especially after the conclusion of the event, would be futile. They suggested that if the petitioners were genuinely concerned about the challenges faced by devotees during the 45-day event, they should have approached the authorities during the event or sought legal intervention at that time.
This decision underscores the judiciary's reliance on established investigative mechanisms and the importance of timely legal interventions. It also highlights the necessity for petitioners to provide concrete evidence rather than relying solely on media reports when seeking judicial remedies.
The Allahabad High Court's dismissal of the PIL reflects a commitment to due process and the appropriate channels of investigation. By acknowledging the existing Inquiry Commission's role, the court emphasized the need to avoid parallel investigations that could lead to redundancy. This approach ensures that resources are utilized efficiently and that investigations are conducted by the designated authorities.
The tragic stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela was a significant event that drew national attention. The court's decision not to intervene further, given the ongoing inquiry, indicates trust in the mechanisms established by the state government. It also serves as a reminder of the judiciary's role in upholding procedural propriety and avoiding unnecessary duplication of investigative efforts.
In conclusion, the Allahabad High Court's dismissal of the PIL seeking a CBI probe into the Mahakumbh Mela stampede reinforces the importance of following established investigative procedures. It highlights the need for specificity and concrete evidence in legal petitions and underscores the judiciary's role in ensuring that investigations are conducted by appropriate authorities without unwarranted interference.
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