SC Asks CBI to Shed “Caged Parrot” Perception, Calls for Fair & Transparent Probes

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 13th Sept. The Supreme Court’s 2013 observation likening the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to a “caged parrot” resurfaced on Friday, with the apex court stating that it is “imperative” for the agency to project an image of being an “uncaged parrot.”

A bench led by Justice R.M. Lodha (since retired) had made the original “caged parrot” remark while hearing the coal scam case in May 2013, criticizing the CBI for allegedly acting under the influence of political powers. This metaphor was used to express concerns about the lack of independence in the agency’s functioning.

On Friday, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, while granting bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy corruption case, revisited the metaphor. Justice Bhuyan, in his 31-page concurring judgment, stressed the importance of a perception of independence in the investigative process, saying, “It is imperative that CBI dispel the notion of it being a caged parrot. Rather, the perception should be that of an uncaged parrot.”

Justice Bhuyan further emphasized that, in a functional democracy, it is crucial for investigative agencies to be seen as above reproach. “Like Caesar’s wife, an investigating agency must be above suspicion,” he remarked, adding that the CBI should maintain its standing as a premier agency by ensuring that its investigations are “fair, transparent, and judicious.”

The observations come in the context of growing criticism from opposition parties, who allege that central agencies like the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate are being used to target political rivals at the behest of the ruling government. Justice Bhuyan’s comments have renewed the focus on the agency’s independence and impartiality.

The bench also reiterated the constitutional right of every accused to a fair investigation, noting that any perception of high-handedness or bias undermines the rule of law. “Every effort must be made to remove any perception that the probe was not carried out fairly,” Justice Bhuyan remarked.

The original “caged parrot” comment from 2013 had been used by opposition parties to attack the then Congress-led UPA government on corruption issues, and the revived remarks may once again fuel discussions about the role and autonomy of India’s central investigative agencies.

The Supreme Court granted bail to Kejriwal, who was arrested by the CBI in connection with alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy, underlining that “prolonged incarceration amounts to unjust deprivation of liberty.”