Allahabad High Court Warns of CBI Probe in 2009 Mainpuri Custodial Death Case, Seeks Missing Video Evidence and Questions Investigation Integrity
By Rajesh Pandey
Taking a stringent and serious view of the alleged custodial death that occurred in 2009 in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh, the Allahabad High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the manner in which the investigation has been conducted and the quality of evidence presented by the State authorities.
The Court observed that crucial pieces of evidence, particularly videography and photographic records of the incident, have not been produced before it, raising significant concerns regarding the transparency and fairness of the investigation process.
The matter came up for hearing in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Association for Advocacy and Legal Initiatives.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Atul Sreedharan and Justice Siddharth Nandan noted that the absence of key visual evidence has created serious gaps in the chain of evidence, making it difficult for the Court to ascertain the true sequence of events related to the custodial death.
Expressing its concern over the missing material evidence, the Court cautioned that if the videography and photographs relevant to the case are not produced before the next date of hearing, it may be compelled to seek the assistance of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to recover the crucial evidence.
The Court observed in its order dated April 7, 2026, that the non-production of such vital material could necessitate the involvement of an independent central agency to ensure that justice is not compromised due to lapses in investigation.
The Bench further highlighted that the existing record does not clearly establish the chain of custody and handling of evidence, thereby casting doubt on the reliability and credibility of the investigation carried out so far.
In addition, the Court directed Karmendra Singh, who was serving as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Mainpuri at the relevant time, to file a detailed affidavit strictly in compliance with the directions issued earlier on February 9, 2026.
The Court specifically instructed him to clearly explain the status and whereabouts of the videography recording, which he had previously stated was conducted in his presence.
The Court warned that failure to submit a precise and satisfactory response may invite appropriate legal action against him.
The High Court also directed the then Superintendent of Police, Mainpuri, to file an affidavit clarifying the events that transpired at Police Station Dannahar, based on his personal knowledge of the matter.
The Court emphasized the need for a clear and truthful account to ensure accountability in the case.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on May 5, 2026, by which time the Court expects the concerned officials to place the required material and affidavits on record.
The Court indicated that any further delay or failure in producing the evidence may lead to the consideration of a CBI probe to secure the missing evidence and uphold the principles of justice.
