The Punjab and Haryana High Court criticized the state government for delaying the FIR in an Army officer assault case. The state cited ongoing farmers’ protests as one reason for the delay. However, the court questioned how many FIRs were registered in Patiala during the same period.
Bench Questions Police Actions
The state’s claim that the action against officers proved a fair investigation did not convince the court. The Bench asked whether suspending police officials was enough. “You are not obliging anyone by placing the cops under suspension,” the court asserted.
State Ordered to File Affidavit
Justice Sandeep Moudgil directed the state to file an affidavit. It must specify how many FIRs were registered in Patiala when the police were on high alert due to protests at the Khanauri and Shambhu borders from March 18 to 23. The court demanded clarity on whether suspending four accused officers and transferring four inspectors was sufficient action.
Doubts Over Investigation
The court also sought details on why the accused officers were at the parking area, assigned duties, and whereabouts. The state’s plea for more time to prove its fair investigation also failed. “You are only buying time,” Justice Moudgil remarked.
Colonel Moves Court for CBI Probe
Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath filed a plea alleging a brutal assault by Punjab Police officers. He sought a CBI or independent probe, accusing the state police of bias and manipulation. Col Bath, serving at a “sensitive post” under the Cabinet Secretariat, claimed he and his son were attacked in Patiala on the night of March 13-14. He accused four Inspector-rank officers and their subordinates of assaulting them without provocation. They allegedly snatched his ID and phone, issuing threats of fake encounters.
Allegations of Cover-Up
Col Bath claimed the local police ignored distress calls and failed to register his complaint. Instead, they filed an FIR for ‘affray’ against unknown persons. His family had to approach senior officials and even the Punjab Governor before an FIR was registered—eight days later.
The petitioner also alleged that the accused officers made video calls to his wife, admitting the offence and urging a compromise. Despite affidavits from eyewitnesses, the police failed to arrest or interrogate the suspects.
Call for Independent Probe
Col Bath cited a conflict of interest and accused the police of suppressing evidence. He argued that a fair investigation was impossible under the Punjab Police. Given his national security role, he warned of a potential breach of classified information. His petition urged the court to transfer the case to the CBI to prevent a miscarriage of justice. He also warned of broader implications, including the demoralization of armed forces and a loss of public trust.