Patna ; In a rather embarrassing twist for CBI, a murder witness it said had died made an in-person appearance before the court. The dramatic appearance took place at Muzzafarpur court and pertains to case on killing of news journalist, Rajdev Ranjan. CBI now has some explaining to do after court issued it a Showcause notice for the botch-up. The CBI must respond with a reply by latest 20 June.
Rajdev was a journalist with Hindi daily, Hindustan. He was shot dead in 2016 by a 5-member gang. In the case, CBI sought to send summons to one Badamidevi for questioning and the court lend consent. However on 24 May, CBI submitted to the court documents confirming Badami Devi as dead. On learning the news of her demise through newspaper, Badamidevi headed to the court on Friday to confirm her existence.
“I live near toll at Sivan. I was listed as witness in the case. However, no CBI official has approached me until now,” said Badamidevi, adding that she learnt of the death status in the newspaper.
“CBI investigations are of suspicious nature in the case. This move stems from silent approval of yet another witness., “ her lawyer told the court.
The Bihar govt had handed the case to CBI in May of 2016.
