The Supreme Court directed Gujarat Police to complete a 19-year forgery investigation within six weeks. It also told the State to file a detailed affidavit on missing records and delay in the probe. The Court said constitutional courts cannot remain “mute spectators” when investigations stay pending for decades.
A Bench of Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Augustine George Masih passed the order on June 4, 2026, in Sahil Abdulsattar Mansuri & Ors. v. Safimahamad Fafirbhai Mansuri & Ors.
Background of the Dispute
The case began with a complaint over alleged forgery of property documents in Bhiloda, Gujarat. The complainant alleged that the accused forged signatures and prepared fake sale and partition deeds during his absence abroad.
Police first filed a C-Summary report in 2014. The Magistrate rejected it and ordered further investigation.
Later, the Gujarat High Court directed a fresh investigation in 2017. It also noted that some case material had gone missing from police custody.
Investigation and Missing Records
A forensic report later confirmed that signatures on disputed documents were forged. Despite this finding, police failed to file a chargesheet.
The State informed the Court that original case papers went missing during transit to the Magistrate. It also said witnesses could not be traced due to delay.
As a result, the probe stalled for years without closure.
High Court Proceedings
The complainant approached the Gujarat High Court again in 2024. He sought a direction to file a chargesheet.
However, the High Court refused relief. It said the Magistrate had already issued directions earlier and found no reason for interference under Article 226.
Supreme Court Observations
The Supreme Court strongly criticised the delay. It said investigation cannot continue indefinitely without progress.
The Court held that the right to speedy investigation forms part of Article 21. It also said courts must intervene when authorities fail to act for long periods.
Importantly, the Bench noted that the complainant pursued the case for nearly two decades. It said he had been “running from pillar to post” for justice.
The Court also stressed that a 19-year forgery investigation cannot remain unresolved without accountability or explanation.
Directions of the Court
The Supreme Court ordered Gujarat Police to complete the probe within six weeks. It directed submission of a final report before the Magistrate.
It also ordered the State to file an affidavit explaining:
- Action taken against officers responsible for missing records
- Status of disciplinary proceedings
- Reasons for not informing the Magistrate about the delay
The Court listed the matter for further hearing on July 14, 2026.
It reiterated that a 19-year forgery investigation must reach a logical conclusion without further delay.
