High Court has sparked controversy by questioning the absence of investigation into senior police officers allegedly involved in the case. The court’s intervention came during the granting of anticipatory bail to Shridhar Pujar, a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), one of the accused in the embezzlement of Bitcoins worth Rs 9 crore.
Background of the Case
The case revolves around the arrest of Srikrishna Ramesh, known as Sriki, an international hacker apprehended in November 2020. Allegations surfaced that following his arrest, Sriki was held in illegal custody and provided unauthorized access to electronic devices by police officers, including DSP Shridhar Pujar and three others.
Allegations and Court Proceedings
During the court proceedings, the Additional Special Public Prosecutor highlighted that 31 Bitcoins seized from Sriki in January 2021 mysteriously disappeared under dubious circumstances. The process followed for the seizure, known as the ‘mahazar’ process, has raised serious concerns about procedural lapses and potential misconduct within the police department.
High Court’s Observations
The Karnataka High Court, while granting anticipatory bail to DSP Shridhar Pujar, expressed astonishment over the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) failure to include senior police officers in their probe. This omission raises questions about the thoroughness and integrity of the ongoing investigation into the Bitcoin scam. The court’s remarks underscore the need for accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies, particularly when handling high-profile cases involving substantial financial implications.
Legal Implications and Public Reaction
The case has drawn public attention due to its implications on the credibility of law enforcement and the judiciary in Karnataka. The disappearance of 31 Bitcoins, valued at Rs 9 crore at the time of seizure in 2021, points to potential corruption and procedural irregularities that undermine public trust in governance and law enforcement.
The Karnataka High Court’s scrutiny of the Bitcoin scam case reflects broader concerns about accountability and ethical conduct within the state’s police force. The court’s decision to grant anticipatory bail to DSP Shridhar Pujar, coupled with its pointed queries about senior officers’ involvement, signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation. As the legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders await further developments that could potentially reshape how such cases are investigated and prosecuted in Karnataka.
The Bitcoin scam case in Karnataka serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding legal standards and ensuring accountability at all levels of law enforcement. The court’s intervention underscores the need for thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct, particularly when significant financial assets are at stake.
Saathee Global
