Awungshi Chirmayo vs. Government of NCT of Delhi [Supreme Court, March 22, 2024]
This case concerned the suspicious death of a 25-year-old woman from Manipur, who was working in Delhi at the time of her demise. The local police initially treated the incident as a case of suicide. However, the deceased’s family, represented by Awungshi Chirmayo and another, contested this conclusion, citing inconsistencies and suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. They sought a more thorough and independent investigation, alleging lapses and inadequacies in the local police’s handling of the case.
Key Facts and Issues
The deceased was found dead in her Delhi residence, with blood spattered on the floor and the bed sheet completely drenched in blood—a scenario inconsistent with a typical suicide.
The family and appellants argued that there was no apparent reason for the young woman to take her own life and that the evidence at the scene suggested foul play.
The Delhi Police’s investigation was perceived as inadequate, leading to a loss of public trust and raising concerns about the impartiality and thoroughness of the probe.
Supreme Court’s Analysis
The Supreme Court critically examined the crime scene evidence and noted the absence of any plausible reason for suicide.
The Court observed that the physical evidence—blood spatter and the condition of the body—pointed towards a homicidal death rather than suicide.
The Court emphasized that unresolved crimes, especially those involving vulnerable individuals and marginalized communities, erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.
The Court highlighted the need for an impartial, credible, and thorough investigation, especially in cases where the initial probe is found wanting or compromised.
Judgment
The Supreme Court allowed the appeal, set aside the High Court’s earlier order, and directed that the investigation be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The Court stated: “Apparently there seems to be no reason for a young girl of 25 years of age to commit suicide. Prima facie it does not seem to be a case of suicide. The crime scene shows that blood was spattered on the floor and the bed sheet was completely drenched in blood. It appears to be a homicidal death and therefore the culprits must be apprehended.”
The CBI was tasked with conducting a fresh, independent, and expeditious investigation into the circumstances of the death.
Significance
The judgment reinforces the Supreme Court’s commitment to ensuring justice in cases involving suspicious deaths and marginalized communities.
It underscores the importance of impartial investigations and the judiciary’s willingness to intervene when local law enforcement fails to inspire confidence or adequately investigate serious crimes.
Citation:
Awungshi Chirmayo and Another v. Government of NCT of Delhi and Others, Supreme Court of India, Neutral Citation: 2024 INSC 249, Judgment dated March 22, 2024.
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