The Kerala High Court has modified its earlier interim order in the Suraj Lama missing case, directing that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the matter be headed by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG)-rank officer.
The case concerns the disappearance and subsequent death of Suraj Lama, who was deported from Kuwait to Kochi. A habeas corpus petition was filed by his son after Lama went missing soon after his arrival in India. Although his body was later recovered and identified through forensic analysis, the Court made it clear that the discovery of the body would not automatically conclude the judicial proceedings or the investigation.
In an earlier order, the Court had directed that the SIT be headed by a Commissioner of Police or an officer of equivalent rank. However, upon a request made by the State, the Court modified this direction and specified that a DIG-rank officer would head the SIT instead. The modification ensures that the investigation is led by a senior and adequately empowered officer capable of supervising a comprehensive probe.
The High Court had previously expressed serious concern about possible lapses at multiple stages, including immigration clearance procedures, the handling of Lama’s condition after his return, and the actions of police authorities after he went missing. The Court underscored that even after the identification of the body, questions remained regarding the circumstances leading to his disappearance and death, including whether any criminal culpability could be involved.
The bench emphasised that the investigation must be thorough and should examine the entire sequence of events—from Lama’s arrival in India to the discovery of his body. It rejected any attempt to prematurely close the habeas corpus proceedings merely because the body had been identified. According to the Court, the seriousness of the allegations and the apparent institutional lapses required continued judicial oversight.
By directing that the SIT be headed by a DIG-rank officer, the Court reinforced its intent to ensure a credible and effective investigation. The matter remains under consideration, with the Court expected to monitor further developments in the probe.
0 Comments
Thank you for your response. It will help us to improve in the future.