Khushi Doshi
Published On: February 04, 2022 at 11:41 IST
A Madras Court Order directed a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation into the death of a 17-year-old student amid allegations of conversion. The Tamil Nadu government objected the Order to the Supreme Court.
The Order issued by a single Judge Bench of the Madurai bench of the Supreme Court was challenged by the Tamil Nadu Government through the Direct- General of Police(DGP). Meanwhile, the girl’s father has filed a Caveat requesting that the Supreme Court refrain from passing any Order without first hearing him on the matter.
After hearing Lavanya’s father’s request for Central Agency to Investigate his daughter’s death, a Bench led by Justice GS Swaminathan issued Orders. The Case was transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) by the High Court
Later, a video was shot when she was hospitalised prior to her death. Lavanya stated in the 44-second video that Raquel Mary had approached her and asked her to convert to Christianity, which she and her parents refused. Her death sparked a Political uproar in the State.
A total of four videos have surfaced, two of which were originally leaked. The conversion is mentioned in only one of the videos.
The police and politicians were severely criticised by Justice Swaminathan While passing the Judgement for ‘jumping to conclusions.’
Interview given by School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi was also pointed out by the Judge and stated, “Since a high-ranking minister himself has taken a stand, investigation cannot continue with the state police.” Further the Order was delivered to CBI’s director to appoint an official to investigate the Case.
Also Read- Analysis of The Shakti Criminal Laws (Maharashtra Amendment) Act, 2020
