Government sanction not needed to prosecute cops who file false cases: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of India ruled that government sanction is not required to prosecute police officers accused of filing false cases or fabricating evidence. The case involved the interpretation of Section 197 of the CrPC, which requires government permission to prosecute public servants. The Court clarified that if the charges against the police officers pertain to actions not related to their official duties or involve personal misconduct, government sanction is not necessary. The decision has significant implications for accountability, ensuring that police officers can be prosecuted for criminal offenses without the procedural hurdle of obtaining government approval. This ruling promotes transparency and strengthens the principle that public servants are not immune from prosecution in cases of wrongful conduct.