Let us now take up the charges against the CBI. It merely suggests a rough handling of the Bansal family on part of the CBI officials who’ve been mentioned by name. ‘Torture’ may or may not include physical assault. Only a detailed probe would reveal whether physical violence was employed against any of the Bansals. It would be scant consolation if no bodily assault is proved. Even threatening a suspect or accused is objectionable in all investigations.

In the present case, it is possible that when those interrogated – including Bansal and his family – refused to fill gaps in the investigation, the CBI official(s) concerned had used abusive language. This had in all likelihood driven the Bansals to take the extreme step. This speculation has led to a demand in some circles that the CBI officers involved in the unfortunate episode should be chargesheeted for abetment to suicide.

Some observers may wonder how the CBI could investigate charges against its own officers. This is nothing new. I myself had ordered a probe against one or two of my prosecutors about fifteen years ago. A few other CBI chiefs had done likewise later. This precedence could influence the present CBI director to do the same. The point, however, is that past investigations were into corruption charges.

The Bansal episode is of a different kind. Here, the allegations relate to rough treatment meted out to suspects in a case of corruption charges against a public servant. Four precious lives have been lost here, and this should be viewed seriously.

Also Read: Bansal Suicide: Delhi Commission For Women Pulls up Delhi Police