The Maharashtra government has transferred the investigation into the death of Ellora-based teacher Suresh Borse to the Crime Investigation Department (CID) following allegations of police involvement and concerns over the impartiality of the local inquiry.
Allegations of Police Assault and Sand Smuggling Links
Borse died under circumstances that have raised serious questions. His family and others allege that he was assaulted by a police sub-inspector and a group of civilians during a police operation. The civilians are suspected to be linked to sand smuggling activities and were reportedly accompanying the police team during an operation to apprehend an accused in a case registered at the Vaijapur police station.
The family claims the assault led to Borse's death. On Tuesday, action was initiated against Vaijapur sub-inspector Eknath Nagargoje and a constable. Both were suspended, and Nagargoje was arrested soon after. However, the victim's family expressed shock when the sub-inspector was granted bail within 24 hours of his arrest. Similarly, other accused individuals in the case were also released on bail within a short period.
CID to Conduct Fresh and Thorough Probe
With the CID now taking over the investigation, the family expects a fresh and thorough probe. Investigators will revisit key aspects, including the presence and involvement of private individuals in a police operation and the circumstances under which they accompanied the police team.
The CID will re-examine witness statements, available video evidence, and other material to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to Borse's death. The agency will also assess whether there were any lapses or shortcomings in the initial investigation conducted by the local police.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The CID is expected to soon take custody of all relevant documents and records from the local police and will summon the accused, including police personnel, as part of its independent inquiry.
