ISRO Espionage Case – UPSC GS2

In 1994, a Maldivian woman was arrested. She was suspected of selling secrets from ISRO scientists to Pakistan.

Mr. Narayanan was arrested along with two other scientists by the Kerala Police on charges of sharing official secrets on space technology and launch missions.

Later, the CBI took over the probe from the Kerala police. In 1996, CBI recommended closure of the case due to lack of evidence.

The CBI also highlighted serious flaws in the police investigation, which relied on dubious tactics and was based solely on suspicion.

In 2018, the Supreme Court dismissed the case as a criminal frame-up based on “some sort of fancy or notion.”

According to the Court, the former ISRO scientist was “unnecessarily arrested and harassed”.

Thus, the court ordered the State of Kerala to pay him Rs.50 lakh as compensation for the damage to his honour and dignity.

The court also formed a committee headed by Justice D.K. Jain to find ways and means to take appropriate steps against the erring officials

The SC ordered CBI to investigate the alleged espionage case against a former ISRO scientist in 1994 and to submit a report within three months.

CBI will investigate the report of Justice D.K. Jain Committee on senior Kerala police officials accused of framing ISRO scientist.

The ‘ISRO spying case’ has raised significant concerns about police investigations in the country.

Also, Kerala’s government has been ignoring calls for disciplinary action against the erring police officers.

Moreover, the State government opposed the CBI’s closure report and made an attempt to revive the investigation by its own police.

SC order is a welcome and necessary step toward ensuring transparency for the alleged frame-up.

Also, it would be in the best interests of the case if the CBI could continue with its inquiry into the officers involved without hindrance