SC says probe agencies tend to go slow on the powerful, but quick to act with commoners
The Supreme Court of India criticized investigative agencies for their perceived bias in handling cases involving powerful individuals versus ordinary citizens. The remarks were made during a hearing regarding financial irregularities linked to a company associated with TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee.
Why it matters
Judicial scrutiny of investigative agencies is critical for maintaining the rule of law and public trust in democratic institutions.
The Supreme Court on Monday (August 31, 2026) said probe agencies drag their feet when it comes to investigating or interrogating persons in authority, but do not bat an eyelid in cases dealing with ordinary persons.
The observations were made by a three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant while hearing a petition filed by Sumit Roy, the personal assistant to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, in connection with the Salboni land-grabbing case.
In the previous hearing, the Supreme Court stayed the arrest of Mr. Roy, directing him to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for Mr. Roy, said his questioning by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) was mostly about his family and the political party’s activities.
“Certainly, at some point, they should get to the offence I have been accused of…” Mr. Sankaranarayanan submitted.
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