‘Shook national conscience’: SC orders CBI probe in Karur stampede

Justice Ajay Rastogi-led panel to monitor probe

- MPOST BUREAU

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the probe into the Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives, observing that the tragedy “has shaken the national conscience” and warrants a fair and independent investigation.

Acting on a plea filed by actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) seeking an impartial probe, a bench comprising Justices J K Maheshwari and N V Anjaria ordered the formation of a three-member supervisory committee headed by former apex court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi to oversee the CBI investigation. The panel will also include two senior IPS officers who are not natives of Tamil Nadu.

“The faith and trust of the general public in the process of investigation must be restored in the criminal justice system,” the bench observed, adding that “fair investigation is the right of a citizen.”