The Delhi High Court strongly reprimanded the Rajasthan Police for arresting two minors in Delhi without proper intimation.
Appearing before Justices Jyoti Singh and Anish Dayal, Ajmer SP Vandita Rana admitted lapses and confirmed a departmental inquiry.
The court questioned why the arrests occurred without informing the Delhi Police and the family, calling the act illegal and highly objectionable.
The Rajasthan Police argued that the arrested boys were not minors, but the court dismissed this reasoning as irrelevant. The bench emphasised that, regardless of age, informing local authorities is mandatory, ensuring transparency and safeguarding citizens’ fundamental rights.
The court noted that both arrested boys are reportedly relatives of Deva Pardhi, who died in police custody.
During the hearing, the court directed the Rajasthan government to submit an investigation report and an action-taken status report.
Delhi Police was also ordered to submit CCTV footage of the arrests in a sealed envelope to the court.
The next hearing is scheduled for October 8, with judges demanding clarity on procedural violations and accountability from authorities.
Earlier, Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan had criticised CBI for failing to arrest officers accused in Pardhi’s death.
The bench remarked that suspending two officers months later shows deliberate shielding, highlighting systemic failures in handling custodial violence cases.
The court observed that this case concerns illegal detention, procedural lapses, and contempt, requiring a thorough, transparent investigation without excuses. A habeas corpus petition filed by the arrested minors’ mother brought the matter into judicial scrutiny, ensuring judicial oversight continues.
The court also clarified that protecting errant police officials encourages impunity, undermining justice, and eroding public trust in institutions.
By demanding accountability, the High Court sent a clear message against unlawful arrests and custodial misconduct by law enforcement.
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