By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 21: The High Court of Meghalaya has directed that the investigation into the unnatural death of a police trainee from Assam, who was undergoing training at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA) in Umiam, Meghalaya, must be concluded by May 31, 2025.
The writ petition stems from the death of the trainee, which occurred on March 9, 2022.
According to one account, he drowned in a swimming pool at the academy. However, the victim’s family, which filed the first information report (FIR), disputes this claim. They argue that 29 policemen were present near the victim at the time and contend that the theory of accidental drowning should not be accepted.
The petition calls for a thorough investigation, identification of the accused, framing of charges, and a swift criminal trial.
Counsel representing the police authorities informed the court that the investigation is still ongoing.
A single bench led by Chief Justice IP Mukerji expressed surprise that, even after three years, the investigation remains incomplete, preventing the filing of a charge sheet.
“A criminal case has been initiated. This Court is not inclined to interfere with the criminal proceedings,” the court stated.
However, given the special circumstances of the case, the court directed that the investigation must be concluded by May 31, 2025, with the charge sheet filed before the trial court. The trial court will then proceed in accordance with the law and as expeditiously as its schedule permits.