The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a judicial commission to investigate the recent terror attack in Baisaran valley of Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. The Court strongly criticized the plea, warning that such actions could demoralise security forces at a time when national unity is crucial.
“This is a critical moment when the entire country is standing together against terrorism. Be responsible before filing such PILs. You also have a duty towards your country. Don’t demoralise the forces,” Justice Surya Kant stated, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issue.
The petition requested the appointment of a retired Supreme Court judge to lead the probe into the April 22 terror attack, carried out by four terrorists linked with Pakistan-sponsored outfits. The Court rejected the idea, saying that judges are meant to adjudicate legal disputes, not conduct investigations.
“Since when have we become investigators? Retired judges are not meant to conduct probes. Don’t ask us to pass such orders,” the bench told the petitioner.
The petitioner further sought protection for Kashmiri students studying outside Jammu and Kashmir, claiming they were facing attacks in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack incident. This too drew criticism from the Court, which questioned the petitioner’s lack of focus and coherence.
“First you ask for a probe, then compensation, then guidelines, and now you talk about students. You expect us to go through all this at night. Be precise,” the bench said.
While ultimately allowing the withdrawal of the petition, the Court advised the petitioner to approach the appropriate High Court for concerns related to Kashmiri students.
The terrorist attack, one of the deadliest in recent years, is currently being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
