Cow vigilantism and lynching: Supreme Court raps states for delay in report, gives them a week

The bench was hearing a plea by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala, seeking initiation of contempt proceedings against Rajasthan officials, including the Chief Secretary and the police chief, for alleged violation of the apex court’s verdict in the alleged lynching of dairy farmer Rakbar Khan on July 20.

During the hearing, the central government informed the court that an empowered Group of Ministers has been set up to consider framing a law on mob violence following the top court’s verdict.

In its July 17 hearing, the top court had called for a special law to deal with incidents of lynching and vigilantism and directed that a slew of “preventive, remedial and punitive” measures be adopted to deal with such offences across the country.

The court directed state governments to designate a senior police officer, not below the rank of Superintendent of Police and assisted by a DSP, as nodal officer in each district to take steps to prevent mob violence and lynching. The two officers will in turn constitute a special task force to collect intelligence on those likely to commit such crimes or be involved in spreading hate speeches, provocative statements and fake news.

The states were given three-weeks time to identify places where instances of lynching and mob violence have been reported in the last five years. The Secretary, Home Department, of the states concerned, was asked to issue directions to nodal officers to ensure that the officer in-charge of police stations remain vigilant.

Curated For You

India vs South Africa 4th T20I, Live Cricket Score: After six inspections, match abandoned in Lucknow due to fog

Dhurandhar Box Office Collection Day 12 Worldwide Update: Ikkis postponed amid Dhurandhar wave, Ranveer Singh film earns Rs 425 Cr on day 13

48 rounds fired, 35 hit target: Killers riddle brothers with bullets in Northeast Delhi