Delhi High Court Overturns Lokpal's CBI Probe Order Against DRI Officer
Suspicion not enough: Delhi High Court quashes Lokpal order for CBI probe against DRI officer
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
The Delhi High Court quashed a Lokpal order directing a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe against Shashi Shekhar Prasad, a senior officer of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). The court ruled that mere allegations without supporting evidence cannot justify an investigation, emphasizing the need for clear reasons in such decisions.
- 01Delhi High Court quashed the Lokpal's order for a CBI investigation against DRI officer Shashi Shekhar Prasad.
- 02The court stated that mere allegations are insufficient for initiating an investigation.
- 03The Lokpal failed to provide concrete evidence or reasons for its decision.
- 04The CBI's preliminary inquiry found no material against Prasad, which was supported by the Director General of Vigilance.
- 05The ruling underscores the importance of substantiated claims in quasi-judicial proceedings.
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The Delhi High Court recently quashed a July 2025 order from the Lokpal of India that mandated a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe against Shashi Shekhar Prasad, a senior officer in the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). The court, led by Justices Vivek Chaudhary and Renu Bhatnagar, emphasized that mere allegations without supporting evidence cannot justify the initiation of an investigation. The court criticized the Lokpal for issuing notices to Prasad without discussing his role and for failing to provide sufficient material to support its decision. The court noted that the CBI's preliminary inquiry found no evidence against Prasad, a finding that was concurred by the Director General of Vigilance and accepted by the Finance Minister. The ruling highlights the necessity for quasi-judicial authorities to base their decisions on clear and cogent reasons, particularly when such decisions impact individuals' rights.
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This ruling reinforces the requirement for substantial evidence before initiating investigations against public officials, protecting them from arbitrary actions.
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