Overview
- The special court approved polygraph tests for Mehul Parekh and Ryan Gore after verifying on Wednesday that both had given voluntary written consent and were told the physical, legal and emotional implications.
- The court refused the CBI’s request to test accused Amarendra Mishra because he declined to consent and Indian law prevents forcing a polygraph on an unwilling person.
- The CBI told the court it regards tests of Mishra, Parekh and Gore as “absolutely necessary” because the three are believed to have knowledge of facts and circumstances surrounding the February 2024 killing.
- Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot during a Facebook Live in February 2024 by Mauris Noronha, who then died of a gunshot; the probe was moved to the CBI after a Bombay High Court order following a petition by Ghosalkar’s widow.
- Polygraph results will be treated only as investigatory assistance and not definitive proof, and their use will follow court directions and human-rights guidelines that govern consent and procedure, which could shape the next steps in questioning and charges.