NextFin news, On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Supreme Court of India expressed strong disapproval of media reports that attributed the cause of the June 12 Air India Boeing 737 crash to pilot error. The court described such reports as "unfortunate" and emphasized the need for an independent and expeditious investigation.
The Supreme Court issued notices on a plea seeking a court-monitored probe into the crash, which claimed the lives of all passengers and crew aboard. The plea argued that the preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) was premature and irresponsibly blamed the pilot without a comprehensive inquiry.
The court underscored the importance of a fair investigation free from external pressures and media speculation. It highlighted that attributing blame before the completion of a thorough probe could jeopardize the integrity of the investigation and unfairly tarnish the reputation of the pilot involved.
The June 12 crash of the Air India Boeing 737 occurred during approach to the airport, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The AAIB had initially suggested pilot error as a probable cause, which was widely reported by various media outlets.
However, the Supreme Court's intervention aims to ensure that the investigation is conducted transparently and independently, with judicial oversight to prevent premature conclusions. The court's notice calls for the central government and relevant authorities to respond to the plea and consider establishing an independent panel to oversee the probe.
This development comes amid growing public and legal scrutiny over the handling of the crash investigation and the role of media in shaping public perception. The Supreme Court's remarks serve as a reminder of the judiciary's role in safeguarding due process and protecting individuals from unfounded allegations.
As of Monday, the Supreme Court's notice has been welcomed by aviation experts and legal observers who advocate for a meticulous and unbiased investigation into the tragic incident.
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