Vivekananda Reddy murder case: SC tells CBI to specify custody plea, hearing on Feb 5
The hearing arose from a petition filed by Vivekananda Reddy’s daughter, Sunita Reddy, challenging the trial court’s order for further investigation in the high-profile murder case
By - Newsmeter Network
ex-MP YS Vivekananda Reddy (File Photo)
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday made it clear that custodial interrogation in the YS Vivekananda Reddy murder case will be considered only if the CBI specifies the persons to be questioned and the grounds for such custody.
The court posted the next hearing in the case to February 5.
Petition challenges trial court order
The hearing arose from a petition filed by Vivekananda Reddy’s daughter, Sunita Reddy, challenging the trial court’s order for further investigation in the high-profile murder case.
A Bench headed by Justice MM Sundresh heard the petition on Tuesday.
Appearing for the petitioner, senior advocate Siddharth Luthra argued that despite approaching the trial court as directed earlier by the Supreme Court, none of the key issues raised in the petition seeking further investigation were properly considered.
He contended that the trial court, instead of examining the grounds specifically pleaded, considered issues not raised in the petition and granted only limited, partial permission for further investigation.
Such a course, he submitted, was legally unsustainable. Questioning the very idea of permitting a ‘partial’ further investigation, Luthra urged the court to intervene.
Supreme Court seeks clarity from CBI
Intervening during the arguments, Justice Sundresh asked the Central Bureau of Investigation whether it was of the view that further investigation was required in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case.
The Bench directed the agency to clearly spell out the specific aspects on which additional investigation was sought. The court further observed that if the CBI could indicate whom it intended to take into custody for questioning, the request would be duly considered by the Bench.
CBI seeks two weeks; hearing adjourned
Responding to the court’s query, counsel appearing for the CBI submitted that the agency would need to consult the investigating officer to determine whether further questioning of any individuals was necessary.
Seeking two weeks for this exercise, the agency requested an adjournment.
