Justice delayed is Justice Denied
Within a year of tireless effort of Advocate Sunidhi Pandey, in September 2024, the Saket Court allowed millitary veteran’s application to be included in the initial FIR, ordering the EOW to file a supplementary chargesheet in the case.
Factual Background
In a world often marred by corruption and deceit, the plight of military veterans can be especially heartbreaking. These brave individuals, who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting the nation, can fall victim to schemes that prey on their trust and loyalty. Such was the case for a group of military veterans who, influenced by a duplicitous individual, invested their hard-earned savings into a housing project that never materialized. Despite their relentless efforts to follow up on their investments, they were met only with empty promises and misleading information.
Over time, these veterans came to a painful realization: they had been deceived. In 2017, united by their shared experience of betrayal, they lodged a First Information Report (FIR) with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Delhi. However, the legal process unfolded slowly, and it wasn’t until 2021 that the EOW filed a chargesheet. Meanwhile, the Saket District Court eventually ordered the return of funds to the victims, a crucial step in addressing their grievances.
One veteran, unaware of the ongoing investigation, continued to rely on the accused for updates regarding his money. This reliance only perpetuated the deception, as the accused offered no information about the probe and continued to mislead him. It was not until August 2023, when other veterans began receiving their refunds from the Saket Court, that this veteran learned the truth. A fellow veteran who had received his money reached out to him, finally shedding light on the situation and revealing the extent of the deception.
Feeling aggrieved and desperate for justice, the veteran contacted Advocate Sunidhi Pandey, explaining the challenging circumstances he faced. With compassion and determination, Sunidhi assured him that she would take immediate action to seek justice for him.
The Plight of Military Veterans
This situation underscores a troubling reality: military veterans often become victims of corrupt practices and a sluggish legal system. Despite their sacrifices, they can find themselves entangled in complex legal battles that seem insurmountable. The systems designed to protect them can fail, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. However, advocates like Sunidhi Pandey embody hope and change. With their unwavering determination and patriotic spirit, they challenge the systemic failures and fight to restore justice for those who have served.
Saket Court Expeditiously Delivered Justice
Saket Court recognized the struggle of a veteran and stated in its order that even now when the complainant has come to know that FIR was registered and charge-sheet has been filed and is still desirous of joining the investigation, the same cannot be ignored.
Court further observed that although charge-sheet had already been filed in the said FIR and it was not stated in the charge-sheet that any further investigation was pending in the present matter, and directed that further investigation be conducted qua the complainant.
While allowing the application, Court further directed that notice be issued to the concerned DCP / EOW to ensure compliance of present Order.
A Testament To Determination
Sunidhi’s commitment to this case is nothing short of inspiring. Faced with the challenge of an already filed chargesheet and no pending action from the EOW, she did not hesitate. Instead, she resolved to initiate court proceedings on behalf of the veteran. After a year of diligent effort, the Saket Court ultimately approved the veteran’s application to be included in the initial FIR, compelling the EOW to file a supplementary chargesheet.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Saket Court for its remarkable commitment to justice, particularly in this case involving military veterans. The Saket Court has provided a much-needed resolution for the veterans affected. The flexibility demonstrated in accommodating the plea of these veterans highlights the court’s dedication to ensuring that justice is accessible to all.
Sunidhi’s work exemplifies the profound impact a dedicated advocate can have on the lives of individuals caught in a web of deceit. Her relentless pursuit of justice for the military veteran not only restored hope for him but also reaffirmed the values of honor and integrity that veterans represent. By standing firm for justice to a military veteran, she demonstrated that the spirit of justice can must be persued even if there are hurdles in the way.
