CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court on Tuesday expressed dissatisfaction over the manner in which the Crime Branch was investigating the murder case of former chairman of Hindol block Nabaghana Sahoo and directed the agency to reorient it in the proper direction.
The division bench, comprising Chief Justice V Gopalagowda and Justice BN Mohapatra, has granted another three weeks for the purpose.
As per earlier direction of the court, the CB produced the status report on the investigation on Tuesday. It was stated in the report that the IO has examined several persons and the investigation was on. The court, however, expressed displeasure over the investigation so far.
According to the case record, the Sahoo was hit by a SUV while returning from morning walk in May, 2011. He succumbed to the injuries. Upon complaint of the brother of the deceased, the police investigated the case and found prima facie material and accordingly registered the case.
Since there was allegation of involvement of political leaders, the Government transferred the investigation to Crime Branch Police which has arrested two persons.
The petitioners, who are the villagers, have alleged that since high profile politicians like Women and Child Development Minister Anjali Behera and other influential people are involved in the case, the Crime Branch may not be able to investigate properly, and it should be handed over to CBI. The mother of the deceased, Durmila Sahoo has filed another writ petition making the same prayer.