Uttar Pradesh Police told the Supreme Court that Ashish Mishra did not intimidate witnesses in the Lakhimpur Kheri case. The court observed the police findings and noted that investigation found no proof linking Ashish Mishra or his father Ajay Mishra to threatening witnesses. The bench comprising Chief Justice Sunil Suryakant, Justice Joymaly Bagchi, and Justice V Mohana heard Ashish Mishra’s bail petition and recorded the police’s status report. The court confirmed that FIR investigations regarding alleged witness intimidation have concluded and no evidence exists to prosecute Ashish Mishra.
Current Bail Status
Ashish Mishra remains out on bail and the court continues to monitor case proceedings. Police informed the bench that a complainant named Amandeep Singh had chargesheet filed against him for other matters under IPC Sections 195-A, 506, and 120-B, which the competent court has taken cognizance of.
Background of the Case
The incident relates to the 3 October 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, where a convoy allegedly linked to Ashish Mishra ran over protesting farmers, killing eight people including four farmers. Ashish Mishra faces ongoing trials in this case, but police clarified that neither he nor his father participated in witness intimidation.
Investigation Details
During the inquiry, police tried to gather statements from witnesses, but some refused to cooperate initially. Subsequently, the Assistant Superintendent of Police from Lakhimpur tracked the complainant in Muktsar, Punjab, and obtained his statement. Investigators confirmed that Ashish Mishra or Ajay Mishra did not obstruct the process in any form, and the inquiry recorded the absence of incriminating evidence.
Next Steps
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for the following month and granted two weeks to file additional affidavits in response to the status report. The bench emphasized adherence to legal procedure while monitoring ongoing case developments.
Official Statements
Police reiterated that they completed all investigative steps and found no evidence implicating Ashish Mishra or Ajay Mishra in witness intimidation, confirming that the status report aligns with factual findings and procedural compliance.
The case remains under judicial review, Ashish Mishra continues on bail, and the court will evaluate future filings while monitoring progress on the Lakhimpur Kheri case.
