Fri Sep 26 13:24:58 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a news article rewrite, adhering to your request:
**Summary:**
The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern warning to the Madhya Pradesh government and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the failure to arrest two police officers accused of custodial death in a case dating back to July 2024. The Court has given them until October 7th to apprehend the officers, warning of contempt charges and potential personal appearances by senior officials if the deadline is missed. The court expressed frustration that the police officers had not been arrested. The judges also raised concerns about the safety and condition of a key eyewitness in the case.
**News Article:**
**Supreme Court Orders Arrest of Absconding Police in Custodial Death Case, Threatens Contempt**
**NEW DELHI, September 26, 2025** – The Supreme Court today issued a strong directive to the Madhya Pradesh government and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), demanding the immediate arrest of two police officers implicated in the custodial death of 25-year-old Deva Pardhi in July 2024. The court has set a deadline of October 7th for the arrests, warning of contempt charges and the potential summoning of the State’s Additional Chief Secretary and the CBI’s investigating officer to court if the order is not followed.
A Bench of Justices Nagarathna and Mahadevan expressed its displeasure with the lack of progress in the case, despite a previous order issued on May 15th transferring the investigation to the CBI and mandating the arrest of Inspectors Sanjiv Singh Mawai and Uttam Singh Kushwaha.
“This is one last opportunity,” the court stated, emphasizing its seriousness regarding the matter.
The State’s counsel claimed the officers have been absconding since April, although their salaries were stopped in May. However, the Court dismissed the explanation, stating, “Whether you pay them salaries or you suspend them, that is your lookout. The majesty of this court must be upheld.”
The CBI, represented by Additional Solicitor-General Rajkumar Bhaskar Thakare, stated that raids had been conducted and the officers declared as proclaimed offenders. However, the court remained skeptical, pointing out the difficulty in believing that law enforcement was unable to locate fellow officers.
Advocate Payoshi Roy, representing the petitioner, highlighted the alleged threats and assault against a key eyewitness, Gangaram Pardhi. The Court has assured the safety of the witness.
The Supreme Court has scheduled a follow-up hearing after its upcoming vacation. The Court also made it clear that senior officials will be held personally accountable if the arrests are not made by the October 7th deadline.
First Piper 