New Delhi, Mar 4 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia to appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on March 17 for interrogation in a drugs case.
A bench comprising Justice J.K. Maheshwari and Justice Aravind Kumar was hearing an appeal filed by the Punjab Police against the High Court’s order granting regular bail to Majithia.
“The authorities may interrogate on these issues and complete the investigation. He will continue to appear on the date as and when required,” the Court ordered.
The bench directed Majithia to be present at 11 AM on March 17 at the Special Investigation Team (SIT) Headquarters in Patiala for questioning.
Punjab’s Advocate General, Gurminder Singh, argued for the cancellation of bail on the grounds that Majithia was not cooperating with the investigation. He submitted that Majithia had refused to respond to certain queries put forth in a written questionnaire.
“Our apprehension is only one. I am not on cancellation. But cooperation and investigation is a sine qua non for us. Appear, cooperate, and answer,” Singh submitted.
However, Justice Aravind Kumar orally observed that Majithia could not be expected to answer as per the Punjab Government’s preference.
Clarifying his position, Singh stated: “He says, I will not reply. This is the answer – I have a right not to reply… My problem is, when I call him, he says he has bail and doesn’t have to answer anything. This is his stand in the affidavit. Please see.”
Senior Advocate R. Basant, representing Majithia, suggested that the Court specify a limited number of days for his client’s appearance.
“Your lordship may direct, I will appear for two days. Kindly don’t leave it to them because it’s being used for political purposes, and I am unnecessarily being harassed. If your Lordship wants two days, I will appear. Please don’t leave it to them,” Basant argued.
The Supreme Court will hear the matter again on March 24.
