New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a petition seeking a judicial probe into the April 22 Pahalgam attack, criticising the petitioner for acting irresponsibly and warning that such pleas only serve to demoralise security forces during a time of national unity against terrorism.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh came down heavily on petitioner Hatesh Kumar Sahu, a lawyer, who had requested an investigation by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge. The court questioned the basis of such a request, asking since when retired judges became qualified investigators.
“This is a critical time when all citizens are united against terrorism. Petitions like this risk undermining the morale of our forces,” the bench said. It also reminded Sahu of his duty as a citizen, calling his actions irresponsible.
Sahu clarified that he had no intention to demoralise the forces and agreed to withdraw his petition. The court advised him to be more cautious in the future and allowed him to approach the concerned high court only on the issue of student safety in the region.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, also urged that such petitions not even be entertained by high courts.
The Pahalgam attack killed at least 26 people and injured around 15. The attack, which targeted tourists in Baisaran meadow, Anantnag, was one of the deadliest against civilians in Kashmir in recent years.
The Supreme Court, along with bar associations across the country, strongly condemned the attack. In a resolution passed by the Full Court, comprising all SC judges, the attack was described as a “diabolical act” that shocked the nation’s conscience and was “an affront to humanity and the sanctity of life.”
“The nation stands with the victims and their families in this hour of unimaginable sorrow,” the resolution added.
