Kolkata (Agency): The Calcutta High Court has issued a significant directive, ordering a preliminary and parallel investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the alleged recruitment of two Pakistani nationals in the Indian armed forces. The court has also emphasized the need for collaboration among investigative agencies, with the West Bengal Police’s CID continuing its parallel probe in the matter.
The order came in response to a petition filed by Bishnu Chowdhury on June 13, which raised concerns about the presence of two individuals, Jaikant Kumar and Pradyumna Kumar, who are purportedly Pakistani nationals and currently posted at the Barrackpore cantonment in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Chowdhury alleged that the duo secured their positions through the Staff Selection Commission examination using forged documents, and further claimed the involvement of a larger network comprising influential political leaders, bureaucrats, and police officials in these fraudulent appointments.
Upon receiving the petition, Justice Rajasekhar Mantha directed the CID to initiate an initial investigation, while also including the Union government, the CBI, and the Indian Army’s Eastern Command chief as parties in the case. During the subsequent hearing on Tuesday, Justice Mantha emphasized the importance of the CID’s findings, highlighting the need to determine the root of the alleged nexus and investigate potential links with other states such as Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Bihar. The judge stressed the significance of cooperation and coordination between the CID, CBI, and Indian Army, urging them to work together without inter-agency conflicts.
In line with the court’s order, both the CBI and the CID have been instructed to submit progress reports of their respective investigations during the next hearing scheduled for July 26. This directive underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring a thorough examination of the alleged recruitment of Pakistani nationals in the armed forces, as well as uncovering any possible involvement of individuals or networks responsible for these fraudulent acts.
The outcome of the parallel investigations conducted by the CBI and CID will be crucial in shedding light on the veracity of the allegations and determining the appropriate course of action. The court’s emphasis on collaboration between investigative agencies reflects the shared responsibility of safeguarding national security and underscores the need for a unified approach in addressing such matters.
