Allahabad High Court Orders Inquiry into Alleged Misconduct by Superintendent of Police

Court seeks affidavit from D.G.P., Uttar Pradesh on the status and actions against S.P. B.K. Bhola for threatening a Trial Judge.

In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has directed an inquiry into the alleged misconduct of B.K. Bhola, a former Superintendent of Police in Lalitpur, accused of intimidating a Trial Judge. The Division Bench, comprising Justices J.J. Munir and Sanjiv Kumar, issued the directive while hearing a criminal appeal, marking a critical intervention in upholding judicial independence and integrity.

The court's decision stems from serious allegations made by the then Sessions Judge, L.N. Rai, during the trial of Brindawan and others under the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The allegations include threats purportedly made by B.K. Bhola to the trial judge, warning of repercussions if he summoned police records or insisted on his appearance as a defense witness. The trial judge had recommended departmental action against Bhola, although he refrained from initiating criminal contempt proceedings.

The High Court has mandated the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, to file an affidavit by December 9, 2025, detailing Bhola's current status, whether he is in service or retired, and any actions taken following the trial judge's recommendations. The D.G.P. is also required to provide Bhola's complete particulars and residential address if he is still alive.

This directive underscores the judiciary's commitment to addressing misconduct within the law enforcement ranks, especially when it threatens the sanctity of judicial proceedings. The matter is adjourned to December 9, 2025, for further consideration, and the Registrar (Compliance) has been instructed to communicate the order to the D.G.P. within 24 hours.

The court's inquiry into this matter highlights the importance of accountability and transparency within the police force, ensuring that such instances of alleged intimidation are thoroughly investigated. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for the involved parties and set a precedent for handling similar cases in the future.

Bottom Line:

Severe allegations against a Superintendent of Police (S.P.) for threatening a Trial Judge - Court directs inquiry into the conduct of the S.P., seeking affidavit from D.G.P., Uttar Pradesh regarding his status, actions taken, and any departmental proceedings.

Statutory provision(s): Indian Penal Code, 1860 - Sections 147, 148, 307/149, 302/149

Brindawan v. State, (Allahabad)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2816674