Kerala HC pulls up state police for lax investigation

Kochi, Aug 2 (UNI) The Kerala high court today came down heavily on the state police for ''low quality investigation'' and stressed the need for the force to become professional in its approach.

Justice R Basant made these observations while rejecting the anticipatory bail application of one Muhammad Iqbal from Thalasserry, Kannur.

Describing the investigation in the case as ''most unsatisfactory'', the court said the police was the visible arm of the state. ''Good governance cannot take place unless we have an efficient, sincere and honest police force. the police force in the country must have commitment to the fundmental commitments of the Constitution,'' it added.

The court said it was unfortunate for it to see the ''very low quality of investigation'' by the state police.

Stating that the police force had to become professional, Justice Basant said every police officer must have pride in the discharge of his duty. ''That is something the police crucially lacks,'' he added.

The judge directed that superior police officers should supervise ongoing investigations. In each zone, there must be a group of senior police officials who will monitor and supervise the investigations, the court said.

Rejecting the anticipatory bail application of the petitioner, who is the fourth accused in a case of vandalism of a shop in Thalasserry, the court directed him to appear before the investigation officer or the magistrate court and seek regular bail.

UNI