Media to bear in mind that investigation is not hampered: Calcutta HC orders SIT to continue probe in Anis Khan death

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In a plea filed by Salem Khan, Anis Khan's father, the Calcutta High Court has ordered the Special Investigative Team (SIT) to continue investigating Anis' death. 

Justice Rajasekhar Mantha ordered, 

"It is expected that the investigation will not be hampered in any way and the media is requested to please bear the same in mind."

Earlier this week the Court had taken suo moto cognisance into alleged murder of student leader Anis Khan. According to sources, four men, one in police uniform and others in mufti entered Khan's residence and pushed him off the roof.

The State government has constituted an SIT comprising of three Senior IPS Officers to investigate the matter. The State has kept out, the Amta Police Station as also the entire district police, away from the investigation.

However, now Salem Khan, Anis' father has approached the Court seeking transfer of investigation to an independent agency because the family does not have faith on the State police. Hence, exhumation of the body for a second post mortem and the examination of the mobile phone of the victim is being very seriously objected to by the family.

Justice Mantha noted that it would be too premature to opine whether the investigation by the SIT would be appropriate or not. Hence, ordered,

"This Court would like to first evaluate the investigation of the SIT, the adequacy of which can only be determined thereafter. The SIT shall, therefore, proceed with urgency and expedition. It is expected that no stone will be left unturned in course of such investigation which shall be carried out in letter and spirit and by the book."

The Court has also order exhuming of Anis' body for a second post-mortem under the supervision and direction, of a District Judge. The post mortem and all investigations of all witnesses shall be videographed and copies should be made available to the District Judge, the Court opined. 

The matter is set for 10th March. 

Salem Khan Vs. State of West Bengal and Ors