Isro spy case: SC hints at relief for former scientist

New Delhi: Observing that former Isro scientist Nambi Narayanan has suffered a lot, the Supreme Court on Wednesday indicated that it would consider awarding '60 to 75 lakh to be paid by Kerala.

Fromer Isro scientist Mr Narayanan was accused of espionage by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Kerala Police in 1994.

Chief Justice Dipak Misra, heading a bench hearing the plea of Mr Narayanan observed, “Truth has come out. His reputation was dented and now restored. For denting the reputation, let the state of Kerala pay '60 lakh or '75 lakh.”

The bench, which also included Justices A.M. Kanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud, however, expressed difficulty in directing criminal prosecution.

The CJI after hearing senior counsel V. Giri, appearing for the petitioner, observed, “If we direct criminal prosecution against those who had ordered re-investigation, then everyone will come to court and there will be chaos. The officers involved must pay for damages. Let the state pay the petitioner and recover it from the officers.”

Appearing for Siby Mathew, who was heading the SIT, senior counsel Basava Prabhu Patil pointed out that the CBI filed a closure report which was accepted by the court. But the government wanted re-investigation. “I (Mr Mathew) was only heading SIT. I am not at fault. There is no torture of the petitioner by me,” Mr Patil said quoting Mr Mathew.

The CJI told the counsel the 1998 verdict says malafide intention of the government. “So, let the state pay the and enquire who is responsible for this mala fide inquiry.” The bench said it would pass formal orders on Thursday.