The state government has extended the term of the Bhima Koregaon inquiry commission until February 28, 2024, marking the fourteenth extension since its establishment in February 2018. The commission is in the final stages of its hearings, with only a few remaining testimonies from witnesses yet to be completed, according to officials.
Closing In on a Resolution
While substantial progress has been made in the case, the commission has a few outstanding witness statements to record. These include testimonies from key figures such as the former Pune rural police superintendent Mohammad Suvez Haque, Pune police commissioner Rashmi Shukla, and Mumbai police commissioner Parambir Singh.
Official Directive
In an order issued on October 9, State government section officer Rajaram Shirke directed the commission to conclude its work and submit the final report to the government by February 28, 2024. The extension was granted due to incomplete witness statements, and the government considered the commission’s request for another six months.
Scheduled Hearings
The commission has announced a schedule of hearings from October 16 to 28, during which the remaining witnesses will undergo cross-examination. Commission secretary VV Palnitkar confirmed the extension and noted that while five witnesses have been summoned, the potential addition of one or two more witnesses may occur if necessary.
Background on the Commission
The two-member Bhima Koregaon inquiry commission was established on February 9, 2018, by then Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Its mandate was to investigate the nature and sequence of events that led to clashes between right-wing members and Dalits on January 1, 2018, during the bicentennial celebrations of the Battle of Koregaon Bhima. Initially given four months to complete its work, the commission has received multiple extensions to ensure a thorough and comprehensive inquiry.
