HC pulls up Hyderabad cops for not filing chargesheet against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi for 3 years

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Thursday came down heavily on Hyderabad Police for the delay of over three years in filing a chargesheet against Rajya Sabha Congress MP and poet Imran Pratapgarhi in a case registered during the anti-CAA protests in 2020.

What is the case about?

Justice Jukanti Anil Kumar was hearing a writ petition filed by Pratapgarhi seeking the quashing of proceedings in the case registered at Charminar Police Station. The case was booked under Sections 188 and 505(1)(b) of the IPC for allegedly making provocative statements during a protest meeting at Quli Qutub Shah Stadium, which had reportedly continued beyond the permitted time.

According to the FIR, the meeting had permission only till 9 pm but continued till 9:48 pm, during which Pratapgarhi allegedly remarked, “Why, in Hyderabad, there is no Shaheenbagh-like situation?” The police contend that the statement was capable of inciting public disorder.

During the hearing, Justice Anil Kumar questioned the government pleader on why the police had failed to arrest the MP or file a chargesheet for more than three years.

“Do you know why the chargesheet is not filed? What difference does it make if the court directs the DGP to arrest the accused? Is there any shield that we must take permission from the Speaker?” the judge asked.

‘Be vigilant about statements made in public rallies’

The court observed that if required, it would communicate with the Speaker for permission, stating: “The accused is involved in a criminal case and he should be sent inside.”

Justice Anil Kumar further remarked that authorities must be vigilant about the consequences of statements made at public gatherings. “Peace and tranquillity of society is more important than you people making such statements and happily going around without a chargesheet being filed.”

'People should not lose faith in the enforcement of law'

Clearly displeased with the police’s conduct, the court said: “What made you not arrest him for three years? We know what is going on behind it. Don’t try to hoodwink this court. This is a criminal case, not a civil matter. If you show a lack of commitment, people lose faith in us.”

Calling it ‘not a simple case,’ the Judge added that it should serve as a lesson to public figures. “Whoever it is, they should be shown their place. Why should we keep quiet when they disturb the peace of society?”

The court directed the Assistant Public Prosecutor to file an affidavit seeking condonation of the delay in the investigation. The matter was posted to December 11 for further hearing.