Families of three killed in 'fake' encounters demand probe into role of top cops, politicians

The family members of three men killed in alleged fake encounters by the Gujarat Police between 2002 to 2006 Wednesday demanded investigation into the role of senior police officers and politicians of that time.

They said the Justice H S Bedi committee appointed by the Supreme Court did not investigate the role of senior police officers and top political leaders of the time.

They said the apex court should direct the committee to probe the role of the top political leaders.

The committee, which investigated 17 alleged fake encounters in Gujarat from 2002 to 2006, has recommended prosecution of police officials in three cases.

In its final report filed in the Supreme Court, Justice Bedi said Sameer Khan, Kasam Jafar and Haji Ismail were prima facie killed in fake encounters.

It indicted nine police officials, including three inspector-rank officers, in the three cases. However, it has not recommended prosecution of any IPS officer or politician.

Appearing before the media, family members of the three victims said the report did not probe the role of senior police officers and politicians.

Sarfaraz Khan, Sameer Khan's father, said, "We respect the probe report but demand that the Supreme Court direct Justice Bedi to further investigate the roles of senior police officers and politicians."