Blackbuck Poaching Case: Justice Sandhu Recuses; Advocate Mahipal Vishnoi Says Legal Fight Will Continue Until All Accused Are Punished

Jodhpur

In a fresh development in the widely discussed Kankani blackbuck poaching case, Justice Baljinder Singh Sandhu of the Rajasthan High Court recused himself from hearing the matter. The case involves actors Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, and Neelam, among others.

As soon as the matter came up before the single bench on Monday, Justice Sandhu declined to hear it (recused). The Chief Justice will now assign the case to another bench for further proceedings.

Advocate Mahipal Vishnoi’s Stand: “All Were in the Same Vehicle”

Speaking to the media outside the court, advocate Mahipal Vishnoi, representing the Bishnoi community, made it clear that their legal battle is not limited to the main accused alone. He pointed out that while the trial court had convicted Salman Khan, it had acquitted Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Neelam, and Sonali Bendre.

Vishnoi argued that all the accused were present in the same vehicle at the time of the incident and allegedly instigated the act of poaching. He emphasized that both the Bishnoi community and the state government have filed a “leave to appeal” against the acquittal of the co-accused and remain firm in their pursuit of justice.

Appeals to Be Heard Together

According to Vishnoi, the court had earlier ordered that Salman Khan’s appeal against his conviction and the government’s appeal against the acquittal of the co-accused be heard together (clubbed). He claimed that there is sufficient scientific evidence and eyewitness testimony to establish the truth in the case before the High Court.

28-Year Legal Battle

The advocate reiterated that the Bishnoi community, known for its deep reverence for wildlife and environmental conservation, has been fighting this legal battle for 28 years. While a change of bench may delay the process, Vishnoi asserted that their resolve remains strong and the hope for justice is unwavering.

 

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