Court says probe cannot continue indefinitely; UK-based doctor may get relief if investigation delays persist
Bombay High Court Directs Time-Bound Investigation
In a significant development, the Bombay High Court has directed the police to complete their investigation against UK-based doctor Sangram Patil within three weeks. The court emphasized that an individual cannot be kept under prolonged restrictions without timely progress in the probe.
Maharashtra Government Signals No Objection to Lifting LOC
The Maharashtra government informed the court that it would have no objection to suspending the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against Patil if the investigation reports are not received within the stipulated three-week period.
Advocate General Milind Sathe assured the bench that the probe would be concluded within this timeframe. He added that in case of delays, the police would not oppose lifting the LOC.
Court Seeks Undertaking from Doctor
The single bench of Justice Ashwin Bhobe accepted the government’s submission but made it conditional. The court directed Patil to submit an undertaking stating that he would cooperate with the investigation and appear before the police whenever required.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on May 5.
FIR and Travel Restrictions Under Challenge
Dr Sangram Patil had approached the High Court challenging both the FIR and the LOC issued against him. The restrictions have reportedly prevented him from returning to the United Kingdom, where he is employed.
He was booked by city police in December last year over alleged objectionable social media posts targeting BJP leaders.
Defence Argues Prolonged Restriction Impacts Career
Patil’s counsel Rajiv Shakdher argued that the doctor has been stranded in India since January due to the LOC and faces the risk of losing his job in the UK.
“He regrets if his social media posts have hurt sentiments, but he is effectively stuck in an open-air jail,” the counsel submitted before the court.
Court Rejects Longer Probe Timeline
During the hearing, the court questioned the timeline of the investigation after the state indicated it might take up to three months due to pending reports.
Justice Bhobe, however, termed the duration excessive and directed authorities to expedite the process, stressing that indefinite restrictions on personal liberty are not acceptable.
Next Hearing on May 5
The High Court will take up the matter on May 5 to review the undertaking submitted by Patil and pass further orders regarding the possible suspension of the LOC.
