Quashing of FIR at the investigation stage is exceptional; courts should not obstruct a prima facie cognizable inquiry.

Quashing of an FIR at the inception of investigation is an exceptional exercise of inherent jurisdiction and should not ordinarily be used to stifle a legitimate probe. At this stage, the court does not assess the truth or reliability of the allegations; if the FIR discloses cognizable offences and a prima facie case for investigation, the investigating agency should be allowed to complete inquiry. Where the petitioner has not joined the investigation and the matter remains at an initial stage, interference is unwarranted. On these principles, the prayer for quashing was declined.

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Issues: Whether the FIR and the ensuing proceedings should be quashed at the investigation stage under the inherent jurisdiction of the Court.

Analysis: Quashing of an FIR at the inception of investigation is an exceptional course and the Court must ordinarily avoid thwarting a legitimate investigation. At this stage, the Court does not test the truthfulness or reliability of the allegations and permits the investigating agency to complete the inquiry where the FIR discloses cognizable offences and a prima facie case for investigation exists. The material placed before the Court did not justify interference, especially when the petitioner had not joined the investigation and the matter was still at an initial stage.

Conclusion: The prayer for quashing of the FIR was declined.

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