Create independent umbrella body to bring CBI, SFIO, ED under one roof: CJI NV Ramana

Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana on Friday urged the Central government to create an independent statutory body so as to bring various investigative agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) under one roof..Such an umbrella organisation should be headed by an independent and impartial authority, to be appointed by a committee akin to the one which appoints the Director of the CBI, the CJI said."There is an immediate requirement for the creation of an independent umbrella institution, so as to bring various agencies like the CBI, SFIO, ED, etc. under one roof. This body is required to be created under a statute, clearly defining its powers, functions and jurisdictions. Such a law will also lead to much needed legislative oversight," the CJI stated.Such an umbrella organisation will end multiplicity of proceedings, he said"A single incident these days gets investigated by multiple agencies, often leading to dilution of evidence, contradiction in depositions, prolonged incarceration of innocents," the CJI opinedOnce an incident is reported, the organisation would decide as to which specialised wing should take up investigation, he further suggested."It will also save the institution from being blamed as a tool of harassment," the CJI opined..It will also save the institution from being blamed as a tool of harassment.CJI NV Ramana .The CJI was delivering the 19th DP Kohli Memorial Lecture at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi. The CJI at the outset paid his tributes to Dharamnath Prasad Kohli, the founding Director of CBI."He was an exemplary officer. Shri Kohli was renowned for his courage, conviction and remarkable efficiency. His vision turned CBI into the premier investigative agency of India. The tales of his un-impeachable integrity travelled far and wide," the CJI said..The CJI in his speech also called for greater representation of women in policing system."Often, women feel deterred in reporting certain offences due to a lack of representation. Their presence in the policing system will further encourage hesitant victims to approach the criminal justice system and report crimes," he said..Pertinently, he also emphasised on improving relations between society and police."This is only possible if police training includes sensitization workshops and interactions to inspire public confidence. It is imperative for the Police and the public to work together to create a safe society," he said.He also had a word of advice for the investigating agencies and how they should remain independent. "The political executive will change with time. But you, as an institution are permanent. Be impermeable and be independent," he said.Ultimately, the allegiance of police is to the Constitution and rule of law and not to any person. "You must remember that your allegiance must be to the constitution and the rule of law, and not to any person. When you stand upright, you shall be remembered for your courage, principles and valor," he concluded..[Read Speech]