Aiming to demoralise armed forces? Supreme Court dismisses petition seeking judicial inquiry into Pahalgam terror attack

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking a judicial inquiry into the Pahalgam terror attack. The court questioned the petitions, asking whether the intention was to demoralise the armed forces even before military action could be taken. The petition was filed by Fateh Kumar Sahu, Mohammad Junaid and Vicky Kumar- all residents of Kashmir. The bench was headed by Justice Surya Kant.

The apex court told the petitioners that they must understand the situation that the nation is currently going through. Judges do not have the expertise to investigate terror-related cases. Submitting such petitions could demoralise the armed forces. The court emphasised the need for some sense of responsibility before filing public interest litigations on such sensitive matters. It further stated that it would be better if the petition were withdrawn. Subsequently, the petitioners themselves withdrew the plea.

The petition had demanded a judicial inquiry into the Pahalgam terror attack under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge. It also sought a special action plan to ensure the safety of tourists.

Meanwhile, the petitioners told the court that the plea was filed to protect Kashmiri students studying in other states. They pointed out that since civilians were killed in the Pahalgam attack, there was a possibility of retaliatory action against Kashmiri students in other parts of the country.