Gujarat HC Refuses To Discharge Cops In Extortion Case; Prima Facie Evidence Exists

The Gujarat High Court rejected discharge pleas filed by police officers accused of extortion, holding that prima facie material existed to proceed with trial. The court noted that the evidence collected by the investigating agency indicated a pattern of coercion and abuse of authority for personal gain. Emphasising that custodial powers cannot be used for unlawful enrichment or intimidation, the court observed that officers of law enforcement agencies bear higher accountability. The judgment reaffirmed the principle that discharge at a preliminary stage is justified only where allegations are demonstrably baseless. By refusing to quash proceedings, the court reinforced that institutional integrity and public faith in the police require transparent adjudication of misconduct charges.