HC Stops Monitoring of Govind Pansare Murder Case; Asks Lower Court to Expedite Trial

Mumbai, October 26, 2023 – The Bombay High Court on Thursday relieved itself from the monitoring of the Govind Pansare murder case, expressing confidence in the lower court's ability to expedite the trial. Justice Revati Mohite Dere, hearing a petition related to the case, observed that the trial had progressed significantly and that continuous High Court supervision was no longer necessary.

The court's decision comes after years of monitoring the investigation and trial, which had faced numerous delays. Pansare, a prominent rationalist and social activist, was shot dead in Kolhapur in 2015, along with his wife, Uma Pansare, who was also injured in the attack but later succumbed to her injuries. The case, which drew widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the safety of rationalist thinkers in India, attracted significant public attention.

The High Court had earlier intervened to ensure the smooth conduct of the trial, issuing directives to the investigating agencies and the lower court. The court had been closely scrutinizing the progress of the case, particularly the examination of witnesses and the submission of evidence.

"The trial is progressing satisfactorily and the lower court is diligently handling the case," Justice Dere remarked during the hearing. "There is no need for the High Court to continue its monitoring. The lower court is directed to expedite the trial and conclude it at the earliest possible opportunity."

While lifting the monitoring, the High Court emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair and speedy trial, ensuring that all witnesses are examined effectively and that the accused are given a fair opportunity to present their defense. The court also directed the lower court to provide regular updates on the trial's progress.

The decision, while welcomed by some for potentially streamlining the legal process, has also raised concerns among certain sections. Activists associated with the case have expressed apprehension about the potential for further delays now that the High Court's oversight is removed. They have, however, affirmed their continued commitment to seeking justice for Pansare and his wife.

The lower court, the Sessions Court in Kolhapur, is now solely responsible for ensuring the swift and just conclusion of the high-profile trial. The date for the next hearing in the lower court is yet to be announced. The outcome of this case is keenly awaited, with implications for numerous similar cases involving violence against activists and intellectuals.