Kolkata, 3 September (H.S.):

The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday raised serious questions over the mysterious double death case in Khejuri, directing investigators to thoroughly examine the call records of 17 individuals linked to the incident. The directive came from a division bench comprising Justice Debangshu Basak and Justice Mohammad Shabbar Rashidi.

The court noted glaring discrepancies in the investigation, particularly between two post-mortem reports. While the initial report cited electrocution due to a fallen electric pole as the cause of death, the second report highlighted signs of physical assault. Expressing concern, Justice Basak observed, “If two post-mortem reports differ, public faith in the system is bound to erode.”

The bench further questioned why no eyewitness accounts had emerged despite the incident occurring during a Muharram procession attended by a large crowd. The judges remarked that witnesses were likely afraid and emphasized that it was the investigators’ duty to allay their fears and ensure their cooperation.

The court directed the CID to scrutinize the call records of 17 individuals, including doctors, investigating officers, and the Officer-in-Charge, to ascertain their role or knowledge of the case. It made it clear that all of them must come under the ambit of the probe.

On the possibility of handing over the case to the CBI, the bench said such a step could be considered later, but for now, the CID must intensify its investigation.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh