Ranchi, October 27, 2026: The Jharkhand High Court has emphasised that people complaining about delays or improper police investigations should first explore the alternative legal remedies available to them instead of directly filing a writ petition. Justice Rangan Mukhopadhyay made the observation while hearing a petition filed by Suman Kumar, a resident of Rajmahal Road, Barharwa, in Sahibganj district. The petitioner had sought directions to police officials to complete a fair and proper investigation in Rajmahal Police Station Case No. 116/2024 and file the charge sheet at the earliest.
During the hearing, the court referred to the Supreme Court's judgment in Sakiri Vasu v. State of Uttar Pradesh and Others (2008). According to the principles laid down in the judgment, a person dissatisfied with police action or an investigation should first approach the Superintendent of Police (SP) or senior police officials. If the grievance remains unresolved, the complainant can approach the concerned magistrate. The magistrate has the power, within the framework of law, to issue appropriate directions regarding the investigation and monitor its progress. Filing a criminal complaint is also an available legal option.
Considering the alternative remedies available under the law, the High Court declined to entertain Suman Kumar's writ petition and disposed of it. However, the court granted the petitioner liberty to approach the concerned magistrate or another competent judicial forum for appropriate relief in accordance with the law.
