SC raps petitioner seeking judicial probe over Pahalgam attack: 'Don't demoralise forces, every Indian...'

The Supreme Court on Thursday rapped petitioners for seeking judicial probe over the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Following the apex court's criticism, the petitioner withdrew his plea.

 

A PIL petition was moved in the apex court seeking a judicial probe over the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Hearing the matter, a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh slammed the petitioner and said it was an "irresponsible petition" given the sensitivity of the situation. 

 

Observing security forces must not be demoralised, the bench said, "This is the crucial hour when each and every Indian have joined hands to fight terrorism. Don't demoralise the forces. Look at the sensitivity of the issue," Bar and Bench reported.

 

"Since when have we acquired expertise of investigation?", asked the bench questioning petitioners plea to appoint a former Supreme Court judge to probe the terrorist attack. "You are asking a retired SC judge to investigate. They can only adjudicate. Don't ask us to pass an order," the bench observed.

 

After the apex court came down heavily, the petitioner sought directions for the protection of Kashmiri students in other states. The bench allowed the withdrawal of the plea and allowed petitioners to approach high courts for matters related to students' safety. 

 

As many as 26 persons were killed in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The deceased include a Nepali citizen, a local horse rider and 24 tourists from various parts of the country. 

India