The Andhra Pradesh High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the functioning of the state police, stating that law and order must be governed by the rule of law and not by the discretion of police officials. The court made sharp observations over changes in investigation patterns after the change in government, witnesses altering their statements, and accused persons from the previous regime receiving clean chits.
The High Court directed the Andhra Pradesh government to file a counter affidavit explaining these developments.
“Law and Order Must Follow the Law, Not Police Discretion”
During the hearing, the High Court emphasized that law and order should be based strictly on legal principles and not on the personal choices of police officers.
The court observed that the law applies equally to everyone, and investigations must be conducted impartially and in accordance with legal procedures. Any deviation from these principles would undermine public confidence in the justice system.
“Police Have Become Poets”: High Court’s Sharp Remark
Expressing serious concern over the manner in which investigations are being conducted, the High Court remarked:
“The police have become poets. They can create whatever story they wish.”
The court indicated that investigations should be based on facts and evidence rather than fabricated narratives. It reminded the police that conducting fair, transparent, and legally sound investigations is their primary responsibility.
Are Witness Statements Changing After the Government Changed?
The High Court questioned why witness statements in several cases appeared to have changed after the change in government.
The judges observed that if investigating agencies alter their approach depending on political changes, it raises serious concerns about the delivery of justice. The court described such developments as deeply disturbing and said that justice cannot depend on which party is in power.
Accused Under Previous Government Receiving Clean Chits?
The court also expressed concern over instances where individuals who were treated as accused during the previous government’s tenure are now reportedly being given clean chits.
The High Court observed that cases should not change their character merely because governments change. It noted that sudden shifts in investigation, resulting in accused persons being declared innocent without transparent justification, could erode public faith in the criminal justice system.
“Such Situations Are Unfortunate”: Government Asked to Respond
Calling the present situation “unfortunate,” the High Court directed the Andhra Pradesh government to submit a detailed counter explaining:
- The changes in the investigation process.
- The reasons behind altered witness statements.
- The basis for granting clean chits in certain cases.
The court adjourned the matter for further hearing after seeking the government’s explanation.
High Court Reiterates the Importance of Rule of Law
The High Court reiterated that the police must function according to the Constitution and the law, not according to political changes or administrative preferences.
Its observations including “Police have become poets,” “Law and order cannot function according to police wishes,” “Witness statements are changing after the change in government,” and “Those once treated as accused are now receiving clean chits” have sparked widespread discussion across Andhra Pradesh.
The government’s counter affidavit and the court’s observations in the next hearing are expected to play a crucial role in determining the future course of the case.
