In a plot twist worthy of a Bollywood thriller, the Supreme Court of India has directed the Assam Human Rights Commission (AHRC) to investigate a series of alleged fake encounters in the northeastern state.
The move comes after lawyer Arif Jwadder’s plea, which the Gauhati High Court had previously dismissed, seeking action over 171 alleged fake “encounters” between May 2021 and August 2022.
The Backstory: A Tale of 171 Encounters
Jwadder’s petition paints a grim picture: 54 people killed and 140 injured in police actions that, according to him, resemble more of a scripted action sequence than genuine law enforcement.
The term “encounter” in India often evokes images of dramatic shootouts, but in this context, it’s a euphemism for extrajudicial killings.
Supreme Court Steps In: AHRC to the Rescue
The Supreme Court, not one to let such allegations slide, has overturned the AHRC’s January 2022 decision to close the case, citing a pending plea in the Gauhati High Court.
Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh have now directed the AHRC to reconsider the matter and conduct a thorough probe into these allegations.
AHRC’s New Role: From Bystander to Investigator
The AHRC, which had previously taken a backseat, now finds itself thrust into the spotlight. The Commission has been tasked with issuing public notices in English and local newspapers to inform all concerned parties about the probe.
This ensures that affected families are heard, and the investigation is as inclusive as a community potluck.
State Government: Time to Cooperate
The Supreme Court didn’t just stop at directing the AHRC; it also reminded the Assam government of its responsibilities.
The state has been ordered to provide full forensic support and necessary resources to the Commission, while also eliminating any administrative obstacles that might hinder their investigation. In other words, no more red tape, just red alerts.
Public Reaction: A Mix of Hope and Skepticism
Jwadder welcomed the Supreme Court verdict, calling it a legal milestone. “This is a moment of hope for every ordinary citizen who dares to believe that justice is still possible,” he said. His optimism is shared by many who see this as a step towards accountability and transparency.
Conclusion: The Curtain Rises on a New Act
As the AHRC gears up for its investigation, all eyes are on Assam. Will this probe lead to justice, or will it be another chapter in the ongoing saga of bureaucratic inertia?
Only time will tell. But for now, the Supreme Court has set the stage, and the AHRC has the script. Let’s hope this drama ends with a resolution that upholds the rule of law and human rights.
