Patna Police Conduct Raid at Retired IPS Officer's Residence
In a significant development, police in Patna executed a raid on Friday at the residence of retired IPS officer Amitabh Das. The operation, carried out by teams from the Patliputra and Chitraguptanagar police stations, targeted his flat in Patliputra Colony as part of an ongoing investigation into his social media activity.
Seizure of Electronic Devices and Documents
During the search, authorities seized several items as evidence, including Das's cellphone and tablet. Additionally, a letter bearing the Ashoka Pillar emblem was confiscated. These seizures are central to the probe, which focuses on Das's online posts related to the alleged rape and death of an 18-year-old medical aspirant from Jehanabad.
Health Deterioration and Hospitalization
Amid the raid, Das's health reportedly deteriorated, leading to his admission to a private hospital in Patna. From his hospital bed, he spoke to reporters, alleging a conspiracy against him. "An attempt is being made to murder me," Das claimed, though police have not commented on these allegations.
Background of the Investigation
The police action followed the registration of an FIR that accused Das of posting misleading and provocative content on social media platforms. This content was connected to the suspicious death of the medical aspirant, who was staying at a girls' hostel in Patna. Das had publicly demanded DNA testing in the case, which police say contributed to the inflammatory nature of the online discourse.
Official Statement from Police
Patna SSP Kartikeya K Sharma provided details on the raid, stating that it was conducted after Das complained of feeling unwell. "He was not arrested or detained. The search was conducted for his defamatory statements on various social platforms. It was also against POCSO rules. During the search, electronic devices and some letter pads were seized," Sharma explained. The police emphasized that the raid and seizures are part of efforts to monitor and curb inflammatory online content linked to this sensitive matter.
Implications and Ongoing Probe
This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny of social media activities in legal investigations, particularly in cases involving sensitive issues like sexual assault and death. The seizure of electronic devices suggests a thorough digital forensic examination may follow. Authorities continue to investigate the allegations against Das, while he remains under medical care, raising questions about the intersection of health, law enforcement, and freedom of expression in such scenarios.
