The Supreme Court of India on Monday declined to entertain a petition that sought an inquiry into the death of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The court cited that it was not its job and clarified that the judiciary cannot run the government.
A bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, along with Justice Ujjal Bhuyan then, dismissed the plea. And advised the petitioner to approach the proper forum. The court explained that determining how far Bose’s death should be investigated and whether different commissions were correct was a question of policy, not law.
But the bench was firm in its response. Justice Surya Kant said, “We are not experts in everything,” and asked the petitioner man who had claimed to be a political worker- to raise such issues through political channels rather than expecting the court to intervene. Justice Kant said, “The Supreme Court is not a remedy for everything. It is not the court’s job to run the government.”
The court also expressed its discontent over the nature of the petition. It also admonished the petitioner for making “reckless and irresponsible” allegations against some national leaders who are no longer alive. The bench indicated that the petitioner’s bona fides-intentions and credibility-deserve more scrutiny.
Thereafter, Mohanty was asked to file an affidavit regarding the work he has been doing for society at large. Especially his human rights-related activism. The judges made it clear that the court can tackle legal issues. But will not interfere with political or policy-related matters.
This judgment strengthens the principle of judicial functioning by affirming that the judiciary can only deliberate on the legality of questions. And not an extension into government policy decisions or questions falling beyond its purview. The rejection by the Supreme Court upholds the requirement for petitioners to approach the right forums in matters concerning policy or public issues.
The case has brought the spotlight again on the undying mystery of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s death. But till now, it has made sure that the court would not interfere in this case.
ANI
Also Read: Supreme Court Grants Bail to Senthil Balaji
