Public Faith In CBI Has Eroded: Madras HC
The Madras High Court has recently expressed deep concern over the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) declining credibility, attributing it to biased and incomplete investigations that have eroded public trust.
Court's Observations and Critique
In its judgment dated April 28, 2025, the Madurai Bench, led by Justice K.K. Ramakrishnan, criticized the CBI for conducting "lopsided investigations" that lacked thoroughness and impartiality. The Court observed that CBI officers appeared to believe they possessed "sky-high powers" and could act without accountability, leading to public disillusionment .
The case involved eight individuals, including a former chief manager of a bank in Tirunelveli, who were convicted in 2019 for allegedly defrauding the bank of ₹2 crore by sanctioning and availing loans in violation of guidelines. The Court found that the loans had been settled long before the bank conducted inspections, rendering the subsequent investigation baseless. It noted lapses at every stage of the investigation, labeling it a "shoddy investigation" .
Recommendations for Reform
To restore its credibility, the Court issued several directives:
Enhanced Supervision: The CBI Director should closely monitor the inclusion of accused individuals in FIRs and final reports, ensuring that investigations are comprehensive and unbiased.
Legal Guidance: Establish a dedicated legal team within the CBI to advise investigating officers on legal principles and assess the merit of cases before registration, preventing the pursuit of baseless cases .
Use of Technology: Equip the CBI with modern scientific tools to improve the quality of investigations and evidence collection.
Accountability Measures: Implement internal accountability mechanisms to address lapses and ensure that officers are held responsible for their actions.
The Court emphasized that these reforms are essential to rebuild public trust and ensure that the CBI functions as an impartial and effective investigative agency.
Conclusion
The Madras High Court's observations highlight the urgent need for the CBI to reform its investigative practices. By implementing the recommended measures, the agency can work towards restoring its credibility and fulfilling its duty to uphold justice impartially.
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