In a major relief for actor Rhea Chakraborty and her family, the Supreme Court has dismissed a "frivolous" petition filed by the CBI, State of Maharashtra, and Bureau of Immigration seeking to reinstate the lookout circular (LOC) against them in connection with actor Sushant Singh Rajput's death case. The court warned the agencies that such petitions would be dismissed with exemplary costs, citing the right to travel as a fundamental right that cannot be curtailed without due procedure. The Bombay High Court had earlier quashed the LOCs against the Chakraborty family in February this year, raising questions about the delay in the investigation and the rationale behind issuing the LOCs.
Sushant Singh Rajput Death Case: Supreme Court Dismisses CBI Plea to Reinstate Lookout Circular
Background:
Sushant Singh Rajput, a popular Bollywood actor, died by suicide in his Mumbai apartment on June 14, 2020. His death sent shockwaves through the film industry and sparked widespread speculation and controversy. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over the investigation of the case in August 2020.
Supreme Court Ruling:
In a significant development, the Supreme Court on February 16, 2023, dismissed a petition filed by the CBI and the State of Maharashtra to reinstate the lookout circular (LOC) issued against Rhea Chakraborty and her family in connection with Rajput's death. The court held that the petition was "frivolous" and that the right to travel was a fundamental right.
The court also warned the agencies that such petitions would be dismissed with exemplary costs, emphasizing the importance of following due process and respecting individual freedoms. The Bombay High Court had previously quashed the LOCs against the Chakraborty family in February 2022, raising questions about the delay in the investigation and the lack of evidence to justify the LOCs.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1: What is a lookout circular (LOC)? A: An LOC is a notice issued by the Bureau of Immigration to prevent individuals from leaving the country.
Q2: Why was an LOC issued against Rhea Chakraborty? A: The CBI had issued an LOC against Rhea Chakraborty and her family in connection with the Sushant Singh Rajput death case, suspecting their involvement in his death.
Q3: What did the Supreme Court say about the LOCs? A: The Supreme Court dismissed the petition seeking to reinstate the LOCs, holding that it was frivolous and that the right to travel was a fundamental right.
Q4: Has there been any progress in the Sushant Singh Rajput death investigation? A: The CBI investigation into Rajput's death is ongoing. No arrests have been made to date, and the cause of his death remains under investigation.
Q5: What is the current status of Rhea Chakraborty? A: Rhea Chakraborty is out on bail and is not under any travel restrictions. She continues to maintain her innocence in connection with Rajput's death.
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