SUO MOTU Vs. STATE OF RAJASTHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) A news was flashed by the media on 24th March, 2014 showing planning of terrorist outfit Indian Mujahideen (for short IM ) for attack. The Police had arrested six persons of the newly formed Rajasthan module of IM. The news was with the heading Temples in Jaipur, Mall on hit list . The Court found Police to be in slumber as no steps were taken for safety and security of the temples, out of which, one temple was visited by Justice Raghuvendra S. Rathore on the day of taking suo motu cognizance in public interest.

(2.) No safety was existing at Lord Ganesh Temple, Moti Doongari, Jaipur (for short Lord Ganesh Temple ). Learned Judge found that other than one Constable Ghanshyam, none was available, that too, he was not in the uniform and without arms. The Constable was asked to inform the SHO, Police Station Moti Doongari to visit the site immediately. The Constable gave information to the SHO concerned but none visited the site other than a PCR van. The suo motu cognizance was taken as no safety measures were found in a congested area and despite density of visitors. It was found that several shops were existing on the road and pavement adding difficulty in making proper safety arrangements.

(3.) Many other issues were taken into consideration which includes the issue of parking, etc. The notices were given to various authorities which includes the Commissioner of Police, Jaipur, Commissioner, Jaipur Development Authority (for short the JDA ) and other departments. A direction was also given to the SHO, Police Station Moti Doongari, Jaipur and other officers to file an affidavit giving out details of arrangements in regard to safety and security at Lord Ganesh Temple and also of Laxminarayan Temple, Birla Mandir at Moti Doongari. The Commissioner, JDA was directed to remove encroachments made by the shopkeepers around the temple creating hurdle for traffic and endangering the security.