SIT submits final report on poll-related violence

Vijayawada: The special investigation team (SIT) which was formed to probe the polling day and post-poll violence in the state submitted its final report to the DGP and the Election Commission on Tuesday. The report covered all the major incidents of violence involving both YSRCP and TDP activists in Palnadu, Tirupati, and Anantapur districts.
As per the report, 37 cases of violence were registered in three districts, which include seven cases related to vandalising of EVMs at various polling stations in Palnadu district on polling day (May 13).The 15-member SIT was headed by Vineet Brij Lal, an IG rank officer, and comprised of one SP, one additional SP, four DSPs, and eight inspectors. The SIT was tasked with supervising the investigation conducted by the jurisdictional investigating officers concerned in the cases falling under its purview.
The SIT found multiple lapses in both registration of cases as well as the investigation process, especially in Palnadu district. The investigating officers were asked to re-examine the witnesses and re-apply appropriate sections of law in the cases, wherever required. In several cases, the SIT found that the accused were cited as “unknown” even though they committed the offence in broad daylight and in full public view. Most of these accused are yet to be arrested. Local police also did not examine eyewitnesses from the locality where the offence was committed, the SIT found. Official memos have been issued to all investigating officers concerned to comply with the instructions for proper investigation of the cases.
A total of 447 eyewitnesses were examined and statements recorded under section 161 Cr.P.C in 3 districts.