DeepState Network
Court Gives Major Relief to Police Officials
The Jodhpur Metropolitan Sessions Court has delivered a landmark ruling in the Kamlesh Prajapat encounter case, bringing relief to 24 police personnel who had been facing allegations of involvement in a purported fake encounter.
Among those cleared by the court is IPS officer Anand Sharma, whose role in the 2021 operation had been scrutinized following legal challenges by the deceased's family.
The court concluded that the police team acted in self-defense during a high-risk operation and found no evidence to support charges of murder or a staged encounter.
Background of the Case
The incident dates back to April 22, 2021, when a special police team conducted a raid at the residence of Kamlesh Prajapat in Barmer district.
According to police records, Prajapat allegedly attempted to flee in a vehicle after officers surrounded the property. Authorities claimed he drove aggressively toward police personnel, creating an immediate threat to their lives.
Police commandos subsequently opened fire. Prajapat sustained gunshot injuries and later died in hospital.
The operation attracted widespread attention after law enforcement agencies reportedly recovered cash, luxury vehicles, narcotics-related materials, and weapons from the premises.
Family Alleged Fake Encounter
Following the incident, Prajapat's family and members of the local community alleged that the encounter was staged and demanded an independent investigation.
The controversy gained political attention, leading to protests and calls for accountability. The matter was eventually referred for investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
After conducting an extensive inquiry, the CBI reportedly submitted a closure report, concluding that the police version of events was supported by evidence and that the firing occurred during an act of self-defense.
Lower Court Order Challenged
In 2025, a lower court rejected the CBI closure report and directed that murder charges be considered against several police officials, including senior officers.
The order sparked concern within law-enforcement circles and prompted appeals before the Sessions Court.
Upon reviewing witness statements, forensic evidence, and investigative records, the Sessions Court found the lower court's conclusions unsustainable and overturned the order.
Political Reactions Continue
The encounter case has remained politically sensitive for several years, with opposition parties, community groups, and regional leaders expressing differing views on the investigation and judicial proceedings.
Legal experts say the latest ruling may significantly reshape public and political debate surrounding the case, although further legal remedies remain available to interested parties.
KEY TAKEAWAY
The Jodhpur Metropolitan Sessions Court's ruling marks a major turning point in the Kamlesh Prajapat encounter case, effectively clearing IPS officer Anand Sharma and 24 police personnel of allegations arising from the 2021 operation and reaffirming the court's view that the use of force was an act of self-defense under challenging circumstances.
