Delhi High Court Seeks Status Update on 2020 Delhi Riots Probe: SIT Demand & FIRs Against Politicians
Introduction
In an important development, the Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to file a detailed status report on the investigation into the 2020 North-East Delhi riots. The direction came while hearing petitions seeking the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), as well as the registration of FIRs against political leaders accused of delivering inflammatory speeches before the riots.
These pleas reflect growing public concern regarding the impartiality and pace of the investigation, and the High Court’s intervention signals the need for transparency and accountability.
Background
The February 2020 Delhi riots resulted in large-scale violence, leading to more than 750 FIRs. Although multiple charge sheets have been filed over the years, several petitions argue that the investigation remains incomplete and lacks independence.
One of the primary demands in these petitions is the constitution of an SIT comprising officers who are not part of the Delhi Police, in order to ensure fairness and remove any possibility of bias.
Another key issue raised is the alleged inaction in filing FIRs against several political leaders accused of making provocative speeches.
Court’s Observations & Directions
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court asked the police to submit:
- A complete status report of all FIRs connected to the riots
- Updates on chargesheets filed and pending investigations
- Clarification on whether any SIT has been considered
- Information on whether FIRs have been registered against the concerned political leaders
The bench also questioned whether the police intend to file additional supplementary chargesheets in the conspiracy-related cases.
The judges noted that although FIRs exist in many cases, questions remain regarding the adequacy and impartiality of the investigations.
Concerns About Investigation Quality
The petitions highlight several issues:
- Incomplete investigations despite multiple years having passed
- Calls for a court-monitored probe to ensure fairness
- Suspicion of bias in cases involving alleged political instigation
- Instances where courts previously criticised the quality of the investigation
These concerns have fueled demands for an SIT, arguing that an external body could inspire greater public confidence.
FIRs Against Political Leaders
A central demand in several petitions is the registration of FIRs against a few political leaders accused of delivering hate speeches. Petitioners argue that these speeches directly contributed to rising tensions before the riots.
The High Court’s decision to examine the status of these complaints will have major implications for accountability and political responsibility.
Impact & Legal Significance
This move by the Delhi High Court can potentially reshape the narrative around the 2020 riots probe. Key implications include:
- Increased judicial oversight in politically sensitive investigations
- Possible formation of an independent SIT
- Pressure on investigative agencies to act transparently
- Greater clarity on political accountability
The decision could also set an important precedent for future cases involving mass violence and allegations of political incitement.
