**Lakhimpur Kheri Violence Case: Supreme Court Directs Action on Threats to Key Witness**
The Lakhimpur Kheri violence case has resurfaced following a significant Supreme Court directive to the Uttar Pradesh Police to take immediate action on a plea by a key witness alleging threats to his life.
Acting on this directive, the Palia Police have registered a case against former Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra Teni, his son Ashish Mishra, and two others for allegedly intimidating the witness.
### Threats to Key Witness
The complainant, Baljinder Singh, who is a primary witness in the 2021 Tikunia violence incident, submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court stating that he has received repeated death threats. Baljinder claimed he was pressured not to testify in court and faced intimidation on August 15 and 16, 2023. Due to safety concerns, he was forced to temporarily relocate to Punjab.
Baljinder alleged that the threats originated from Ajay Mishra Teni, Ashish Mishra, Amandeep Singh (a close aide of the Tenis), and an unidentified individual.
### Supreme Court’s Intervention and Police Action
Taking serious note of these claims, the Supreme Court ordered the Uttar Pradesh Police to initiate immediate proceedings. Subsequently, a case has been registered under IPC Sections 195A (threatening a witness) and 506 (criminal intimidation), along with charges of conspiracy.
Police officials have confirmed that the investigation is underway and that statements from all involved parties will be recorded soon.
### Background: The Tikunia Violence Incident
The Tikunia violence occurred on October 3, 2021, when a convoy belonging to Ashish Mishra allegedly ran over protesting farmers. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including a journalist, and sparked widespread political and public outrage across the country.
### Significance of the New FIR
This newly filed FIR, prompted by the Supreme Court’s directive, marks a significant development in the ongoing case. It holds the potential to impact the trial proceedings by bringing renewed scrutiny on the accused and emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of witnesses in this politically sensitive matter.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes remain on the justice process in this high-profile case.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/lakhimpur-violence-case-fir-against-ajay-mishra-teni-son-ashish-for-threatening-key-witness
