Azam’s remark on Bulandshahr gangrape case is objectionable: Supreme Court

New Delhi: The Supreme Court, on Monday, took exception to Uttar Pradesh Parliamentary Affairs minister Azam Khan's remark made on the Bulandshahr gangrape case. The SC said that statements from the political leaders like Khan create mistrust and could hinder investigation. It also raises a question mark on the entire system. This is the violation of freedom of speech too , said the Supreme Court.

What the Supreme Court said:

• The apex court stated that Azam’ appeared to be insensitive in this case.
• The SC has asked him as to why he had termed the case as a political conspiracy.
• The court said, “No one, who has been appointed at a reputed post in government, has the right to give such statements which could affect the proceedings of ongoing investigation in any case.” “The minister did not have anything to do with the case and, thus, he should prevent giving statements which may lead to a biased investigation,” stated the SC.
• The Supreme Court also warned the Uttar Pradesh government saying that it is the duty of state government to keep a check on ministers who try to divert the attention of investigation teams through their statements.
• “These statements come under the violation of constitutional right to freedom of speech,” said the apex court.

Also Read: SC stays High Court order for CBI inquiry into Bulandshahr case

What had Azam said:

• Azam Khan had earlier stated that the rape of a minor and her mother on the Bulandshahr highway was a political conspiracy.
• "To get power, politicians can get down to any level, they can murder people, trigger riots, kill innocent people. So the truth has to be found out," the minister had said.

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