Replace Lakhimpur Kheri trial public prosecutor, recall witnesses: SC to UP
The Supreme Court of India has ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to replace the public prosecutor in the Lakhimpur Kheri case following allegations of witness intimidation and trial mismanagement. The court also requested an action report from the Allahabad High Court regarding the trial judge's conduct.
Why it matters
This case is a significant test of judicial integrity and the state's ability to ensure a fair trial in high-profile cases involving political figures.
NEW DELHI: Giving a twist to the five-year-old Lakhimpur Kheri case in which Asish Mishra, the son of former Union minister Ajay Mishra, is accused of mowing down four protesting farmers with his vehicle, advocate Prashant Bhushan Tuesday accused the trial judge of attempting to intimidate witnesses and derail the trial.Bhushan told a SC bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana that when a prime witness had sought deferment of his deposition on medical grounds, the trial judge issued non-bailable arrest warrants against him.“The judicial officer needs to be changed.
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