The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Monday reserved its order on the anticipatory bail petition filed by Bihar cadre IPS officer M Sunil Kumar Naik, after hearing detailed arguments from both sides in a case linked to allegations of custodial torture dating back to 2024.
Justice Venkata Jyotirmayi posted the matter for April 6 while granting interim protection to the officer, directing that no coercive action be taken against him until further orders.
The court, however, made it clear that Naik must fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
Court Directs Officer to Cooperate Fully with Investigation
During the hearing, the High Court instructed Sunil Kumar Naik to:
- Appear before the investigating officer whenever summoned
- Cooperate fully in the ongoing probe
- Share his 24-hour mobile contact details
- Provide his WhatsApp number to the investigating authorities
The court’s direction effectively ensures the officer remains accessible throughout the investigation period while retaining interim legal protection.
Interim Protection Granted, But No Relief on Personal Appearance
While granting temporary protection, the court declined two requests made by the officer.
Plea for Exemption from Personal Appearance Rejected
The High Court rejected Naik’s plea seeking exemption from personal appearance.
Virtual Appearance Request Also Denied
His request to attend proceedings through virtual mode was also refused.
The court observed that such relief cannot ordinarily be extended to an accused person facing criminal proceedings.
This means the officer will be required to remain personally available for legal and investigative requirements.
Case Originates from Complaint by Raghuramakrishna Raju
The criminal proceedings stem from a complaint filed in July 2024 by former MP and current Andhra Pradesh Deputy Speaker Raghuramakrishna Raju.
According to the complaint, custodial torture was allegedly carried out by CID officials during a period when Sunil Kumar Naik was serving as DIG.
The allegations relate to events during Naik’s earlier posting in Andhra Pradesh before his Bihar cadre assignment became the focus of litigation.
Senior Legal Team Appears for Naik
Two senior advocates represented the IPS officer before the High Court:
- Kapil Sibal
- Ashwani Kumar
Defence Raises Procedure Violation Argument
The legal team argued that due process was allegedly not followed during action initiated against the officer.
According to submissions made before the court:
- No proper warrant was issued
- Local police were not informed
- Arrest-related procedure was allegedly bypassed
These arguments formed the basis of the anticipatory bail request.
Next Hearing on April 6 Crucial for Officer’s Legal Relief
The High Court has now reserved orders and fixed April 6 for the next stage.
Legal observers note that the upcoming order could determine:
- Whether anticipatory bail is formally granted
- Whether interim protection continues
- Whether investigation conditions become stricter
Case Closely Watched in Bureaucratic and Legal Circles
The matter is drawing attention because it involves:
- A serving IPS officer of Bihar cadre
- Allegations linked to earlier Andhra posting
- A complaint by a prominent political figure
- Senior legal representation at High Court level
The final order may also shape how similar service-related criminal allegations involving senior officers are treated in future.
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