New Delhi: The Supreme Court has transferred investigation of the cases against former Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
A two-member bench, comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice MM Sundresh, on Thursday allowed the appeal filed by Param Bir and transferred the investigation relating to 5 FIRs against him from Maharashtra Police to CBI, LiveLaw.in reported.
“We are not saying Param Bir Singh is a whistle blower or that anyone involved is innocent. The disturbing scenario presented before this court deserves inquiry,” the justices said, declining to interfere with Param Bir’s suspension by the state government.
“This is not a reflection on the police of Maharashtra, which is respected, but a troubling scenario among the higher echelons. We cannot accept the argument that when a person in power loses power, then persons below him come out and file FIRs. We do believe there is some inter-concerted effort being made which requires investigation by an agency outside the state police,” the bench concluded.
“We are of the opinion that the state itself should have offered for an investigation to be carried out. Exigencies and advancement of fair play require investigation to be transferred to the CBI,” the court added.
Also Read: ‘Missing’ Former Mumbai Police Chief Param Bir Singh Resurfaces
Darius Khambata, appearing for Maharashtra government, argued that the state doesn’t want CBI to probe the cases against Param Bir.
“The state’s consent is required for any investigation. We do not agree to a CBI inquiry because it will affect the morale of the police. No facts placed before the court could prove that the police did not investigate properly. So far only baseless allegations have been made,” said Khambata.
The Supreme Court justices rebutted: “That’s not correct… Sometimes states themselves send matters to the CBI. If it was demoralizing, then the CBI would not have any cases. It is linked to the same question of demands being made.”
Param Bir was removed as Mumbai’s top cop in March 2021 after an explosive-laden SUV was found parked outside Mukesh Ambani’s residence.
Param Bir then wrote to Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray, accusing then-state Home Minister Anil Deshmukh of extortion and corruption.
Also Read: Maharashtra Govt Finally Suspends Ex-Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir
