Did the Madras HC Order a CBI Investigation into the Murder of BSP Leader K. Armstrong?
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Synopsis
The Madras High Court has transferred the investigation of BSP leader K. Armstrong's murder to the CBI due to concerns about police lapses. This pivotal move aims to ensure a thorough investigation into the shocking crime that claimed Armstrong's life and involves a complex web of gang rivalries and accusations.
Key Takeaways
- Madras High Court orders CBI investigation into Armstrong's murder.
- Concerns over police lapses in the initial investigation.
- Justice Velmurugan emphasizes the need for thorough investigations.
- A significant connection to gang rivalries has been established.
- Seizures during the investigation include weapons and cash.
Chennai, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Madras High Court has formally transferred the investigation of the murder of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) State president K. Armstrong to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This decision follows concerns regarding the handling of the investigation by the Greater Chennai City Police.
Justice P. Velmurugan issued the ruling while considering a petition from Armstrong's brother, K. Immanuvel, who argued that the local police had not conducted a thorough or impartial inquiry.
Armstrong was tragically killed by an armed group in Perambur on July 5, 2024.
In previous court sessions, the judge criticized the city police for failing to conduct an identification parade, despite having multiple eyewitnesses.
“Many criminal cases result in acquittals due to inadequate investigations. This case exemplifies that issue,” he remarked, dismissing police claims that CCTV footage and media exposure of the suspects made the parade unnecessary.
“Was the media present at the crime scene?” he questioned. Reportedly, Armstrong was murdered in front of his brother, K. Veeramani, who was injured while attempting to protect him, along with other associates. Veeramani had stated that he could identify the attackers, yet no identification parade was conducted.
The city police, in their response, asserted that they had executed a thorough investigation through a Special Investigation Team led by a Joint Commissioner of Police, consisting of 80 members. They linked the murder to gang rivalries and retribution for the 2023 murder of ‘Arcot’ Suresh.
A 7,087-page charge sheet was submitted against 30 defendants, including family and associates of Suresh. The police named Nagendran, already incarcerated in Vellore Central Prison, as the primary suspect.
Additionally, two accused lawyers, Shambhava Senthil and ‘Mottai’ Krishnan, are currently at large, and Red Corner Notices have been issued to locate Senthil internationally. The SIT disclosed to the court that various items, including weapons, homemade bombs, vehicles, ₹63.13 lakh in cash, and even a Zomato delivery uniform used for disguise, were seized during the investigation.
They also invoked the Goondas Act against the accused. Nevertheless, the court maintained that the significant oversights, particularly the failure to conduct an identification parade, compromised the investigation's integrity.
Following Supreme Court precedents, Justice Velmurugan concluded that the case warranted a transfer to the CBI “to uncover the truth.”
Point of View
I believe that the transfer of Armstrong's murder case to the CBI is a necessary action to uphold justice. The lapses identified by the Madras High Court signify a need for accountability in law enforcement, especially in cases involving serious crime. It is crucial that investigations are conducted thoroughly and transparently to restore public faith in the legal system.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the investigation into K. Armstrong's murder transferred to the CBI?
The Madras High Court transferred the investigation due to significant concerns regarding lapses in the local police's probe, including the failure to conduct an identification parade despite eyewitnesses.
What connections does the murder of K. Armstrong have with gang rivalries?
The police linked Armstrong's murder to ongoing gang rivalries, particularly as it was reportedly connected to the revenge killing of 'Arcot' Suresh in 2023.
What has the court said about the police investigation?
Justice P. Velmurugan criticized the city police for their inadequate investigation methods, highlighting that such oversights often lead to acquittals in criminal cases.
What items were seized during the investigation?
The investigation yielded significant evidence, including weapons, country-made bombs, vehicles, cash, and a delivery uniform used for disguise.
Who are the main accused in this case?
The main accused is Nagendran, who is currently imprisoned, while others, including two lawyers, remain at large.
