In the NEET student death case, a court in Patna has criticized the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for its approach and set the next hearing for March 2. The court session, lasting over two hours, ended with the matter being adjourned to the mentioned date. The CBI’s entire team was present during the proceedings, where the court raised concerns about the agency’s actions and the legal aspects of the case.
The court specifically inquired why the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act has not been applied in this sensitive matter. It noted that the CBI is currently focusing on the attempt to murder section, which the court deemed inadequate given the seriousness of the allegations. The judge demanded a clear explanation from the CBI about the legal grounds of their ongoing probe.
During the hearing, the court questioned the necessity of keeping the accused, Manish Ranjan, in custody when the POCSO Act has not been invoked. It also sought details on any substantial findings against the accused in the past 15 days and the rationale behind his continued detention without sufficient evidence. The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which previously handled the case, shared its perspective with the court, mentioning that Ranjan was arrested due to his perceived influence but is no longer needed in custody since the CBI took over.
The mother of the deceased student, emotionally pleading for justice, was present in court. The case’s timeline reveals that local police initially investigated until January 17, after which the SIT took over, and the CBI officially started its inquiry on February 12. With the court expecting written responses to its queries, the focus now shifts to the upcoming hearing on March 2, where the CBI’s legal stance and investigative progress will be crucial for the accused’s bail application and the case’s direction.
