The Allahabad High Court has strongly criticised the conduct of police officials in handling public grievances, particularly in cases of abduction and kidnapping. Observing a recurring pattern of apathy and lack of accountability, the Court remarked that while the police often project a larger-than-life image, they frequently shield themselves from public scrutiny and responsibility.
A Division Bench comprising Justice J.J. Munir and Justice Anil Kumar made these remarks on Tuesday while hearing a writ petition filed by one Nitesh Kumar. The petitioner alleged that his brother had gone missing and that the local police in Varanasi had failed to trace him despite repeated efforts.
The Court noted with concern that in many such cases, police officials exhibit indifference, largely because no individual accountability is fixed on them. The Bench stated, “This lack of accountability often results in an abduction tragically turning into a murder due to their inaction.”
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the Court further observed that in incidents where the abductee is not recovered and is ultimately found dead, the primary responsibility—at least on a prima facie basis—should rest with the head of the police in whose jurisdiction the report was filed and where timely recovery failed.
In light of the serious allegations and the lack of progress in the investigation, the Court directed the State Government to file a detailed reply. It also sought a personal affidavit from the Commissioner of Police, Varanasi, to be submitted on or before June 12, explaining the reasons for the continued failure to recover the missing individual.
