UP Police Cleared Of Collusion In Atiq Ahmed And Ashraf Murder Case, Judicial Report Reveals

A five-member judicial commission has cleared the Uttar Pradesh Police of any collusion or negligence in the high-profile murder of mafia boss Atiq Ahmed and his brother, Khalid Azim alias Ashraf. The commission’s report, tabled in the state Assembly on Thursday, concludes that the April 15, 2023, killings at Colvin Hospital in Prayagraj were the result of a pre-planned conspiracy that could not have been avoided by the police.

Led by former Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court, Dilip Baba Saheb Bhosale, the commission’s investigation involved testimonies from 87 witnesses, as well as an extensive review of documents, CCTV footage, and video recordings. The findings indicate that the murders of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf were not orchestrated by state or police officials, nor were they due to any police negligence.

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The report underscores that the incident unfolded rapidly in a span of just nine seconds, making it impossible for the police to react differently or prevent the attack. The commission highlighted that the police had to deal with the situation in real-time amid a heavy media presence, which significantly hampered their ability to intervene.

The commission also noted that the deployment of police personnel was above the mandated standards. For the transfer of Atiq from Sabarmati Jail in Gujarat and Ashraf from Bareilly Jail to Prayagraj, 21 officers were assigned, well above the usual number specified under the Police Guard and Escort Manual.

Atiq and Ashraf Experienced Health Issues

During their remand, Atiq and Ashraf experienced health issues, including discomfort and breathing problems. The police took these concerns seriously, regularly monitoring their health and even consulting a private doctor for advice on medical check-ups.

The commission’s report criticized the role of the media, pointing out that their persistent coverage and close proximity to the accused contributed to the chaotic environment. The report states that media personnel, with their constant flash photography and live coverage, obstructed the police’s ability to secure the area effectively.

In its conclusion, the commission found that the police reaction was appropriate given the circumstances and that there was no indication of wrongdoing or failure on their part. The attackers, who posed as media personnel, carried out the murders with the intent of gaining notoriety, a motive that was corroborated by their statements during the investigation.

The report also noted the significant repercussions for the police, as the murder brought to light unanswered questions regarding the recovered weapons and their potential links to terrorist organizations and foreign agencies.

Overall, the commission’s findings exonerate the UP Police of any direct involvement or mishandling of the situation in the tragic deaths of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf.