In a significant development in the ongoing proceedings relating to the gang rape and murder of Disha Salian, Justice Sandesh Patil of the Bombay High Court has recused himself from hearing the matter.
The matter has presently reached a crucial stage, where directions are being sought for registration of an FIR against Aditya Thackeray and others for brutal offences of gang rape and murder. The petitioners have been pressing for immediate judicial intervention and initiation of criminal proceedings.
As per the earlier order of the Hon’ble High Court, the writ petition was directed to be listed on 20.01.2026. However, the matter was not listed on the said date. Consequently, Advocate Vijay Kurle, counsel appearing for Shri Satish Salian, father of Disha Salian, mentioned the matter before the Bench comprising Justice Sarang Kotwal and Justice Sandesh Patil, seeking urgent listing of the petition.
At that stage, Justice Sandesh Patil informed the counsel that he had earlier been briefed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as counsel in the very same writ petition hence he cannot hear the Petition.
Accordingly, an order came to be passed directing that the petition be placed before an appropriate Bench of which Justice Sandesh Patil is not a member.
Today, on behalf of Shri Satish Salian, several advocates appeared before the Court for the purpose of mentioning the matter for early hearing. The team of counsel included Advocate Abhishek Mishra, Advocate Shivam Gupta, Advocate Anushka Sonawane, along with other assisting advocates. The matter was mentioned seeking urgent listing and appropriate directions in view of the importance and sensitivity of the case.
