The Gujarat police and other authorities were on the receiving end of the critical comments from Justice Sandeep N Bhatt on Jan 8 regarding the recovery and seizures of muddamal (stolen items) by the authorities.

The rebuke of the judge came while hearing the case of a stolen oil tank’s delayed investigation. The authorities filed a chargesheet after a petition was lodged by the complainant. 

Thereafter, the police seized some other muddamal and compelled the complainant to accept it.

Taking a jibe at the law and order situation of the state, Justice Bhatt said, “Have you ever heard that common people who lose their two-wheeler, four-wheeler, or any other lost belongings get their items back? This can’t be permitted."

“This mili bhagat (of authorities) has to be stopped” 

Justice Bhatt in his order said, “This court has come across incidents where the theft of vehicles is registered with the police stations, but the police authorities initially declined to register the FIR.”

“In 95% of the cases, the vehicle was never found by the police authorities, though it is the duty of the police authorities to give protection to the rights of the citizens, including their property,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the authorities are unable to find vehicles due to the inefficiency or connivance of the police officers. Such instances are necessary to be addressed and make necessary changes in the system,” Justice Bhatt added.

Justice dubbed the thefts in the city a failure of the system to prevent such incidents and maintain law and order.

HC orders to submit report in two weeks

The Gujarat High Court has directed the secretary of the home department, the director general of police (DGP), the DGP (law and order), and all the deputy inspector generals (DIG) to look into the matter and take measures immediately.

The court cannot sit as a silent spectator when the police and authorities fail in their duties. It is their duty to protect their rights and avoid any harassment of innocent citizens.

In the case of the stolen oil tank, Justice Bhatt has directed the DGP to hand over the inquiry under his supervision to the DIG of the concerned range for further investigation. Justice has directed the investigating officer to submit a report in two weeks.

The court has also directed the investigating officer to pay ₹25,000 to the petitioner within four weeks as a fine.

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