Ex-Cop Under Investigation for Missing Files in Kamaal Khan Post Case

Swift Summary

• Inquiry Launched: Mumbai police have initiated a probe against retired inspector Deepak Shinde for failing to hand over inquiry papers in a 2017 case involving actor Kamaal R Khan.
• Case Details: The case was based on an FIR filed by then-assistant police inspector Archana Sutar,alleging that KhanS derogatory social media post insulted a woman’s modesty and included an obscene image.
• Legal arguments: Advocate Sana Raees Khan claimed there was no evidence linking Khan to the post, arguing that the phrase ‘yukki’ was not obscene or meaningful under Indian Penal code Section 509.
• Missing Papers Disclosure: During proceedings at Bombay High Court, the prosecution admitted key investigation papers were untraceable. Deputy Commissioner Dikshit Gedam has filed an affidavit addressing this lapse and proposed disciplinary measures against Shinde.
• Action Taken: A preliminary inquiry and recommendation for disciplinary action against retired officer Shinde have been initiated on August 18 by Bandra Police Station. Efforts to retrieve documents were unsuccessful.
• Mumbai Police’s Position: Despite missing files, Mumbai police opposed Kamaal R Khan’s petition seeking cancellation of the FIR.
• Additional Cases Against Khan: Gedam’s affidavit revealed four other criminal cases registered against Kamaal R Khan between 2018 and 2021.

!Actor Kamaal K.File Photo

Indian Opinion Analysis

The missing investigative documents in this high-profile case raise serious concerns about procedural lapses within Mumbai police.such irregularities may undermine public trust in law enforcement institutions and delay justice for those involved. While disciplinary measures against retired inspector Deepak Shinde appear necessary, why these lapses occurred must be thoroughly examined to prevent recurrence in similar cases.The legal defense questioning obscenity under IPC Section 509 highlights challenges surrounding interpreting social media content legally-a rising concern with evolving digital norms. Additionally, revelations about past criminal cases against Kamaal R Khan might reflect recurring judicial scrutiny faced by public personalities but should remain independent of this court deliberation unless directly relevant.

Ultimately, streamlining case handling procedures is crucial for improving institutional accountability while balancing freedom of expression with legal compliance on internet platforms.Read More