Judiciary of Bhutan Suspends Justices for Misconduct in Drug Smuggling Case
In a significant development, the Judiciary of Bhutan has taken action against two justices, Pema Rinzin and Tshering Dorji, from Bench I of the High Court. The justices have been suspended for their involvement in a deliberate miscarriage of justice in a case related to drug smuggling and possession.
The case, which dates back to 2019, involved two defendants, one of whom was the son of a renowned Kuensel Reporter. They were prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) for drug smuggling and possession. The defendants were accused of being in possession of Spasmo Proxyvon Plus (SP+), a controlled substance.
Initially, the Thimphu Dzongkhag Court convicted both defendants and handed down a five-year sentence for each of them. However, the defendants appealed to the High Court, seeking a reversal of the judgment.
To the shock of many, Bench I of the High Court completely overturned the Thimphu Dzongkhag Court's ruling, leading to widespread concern and criticism. The decision was seen as a deliberate miscarriage of justice, raising questions about the integrity and fairness of the judiciary.
In response to the controversy, the Supreme Court intervened and directed the High Court to review the case. A Special Bench was formed to examine the matter thoroughly.
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