Colonel assault case: High Court seeks explanation from Punjab government over delay in lodging FIR
PTC News Desk: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has sought explanation from Punjab government in the delay in the registration of an FIR in the Army officer's assault matter. The court has granted two days to the government to file its response over the delay.
Justice Sandeep Moudgil issued notice to the State and CBI and sought a comprehensive status report over serious allegations levelled against senior officials of the agency.
Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath, currently posted at the Army headquarters in New Delhi, has alleged that on the night of March 13 four Inspector-rank officers of Punjab Police and their armed subordinates attacked him and his son without any provocation.
"Despite the seriousness of the offence, the local police failed to take action. Distress calls made to senior officials were ignored, and instead of registering an FIR based on the petitioner's statement, a bogus FIR under 'affray against unknown persons was filed on the complaint of an unrelated third party. The petitioner's family had to approach senior police officers and the Hon'ble Governor of Punjab before a proper subsequent FIR was eventually registered - after 8 days," the plea stated.
The court has also asked the atste that why the alcohol test of the police officials involved was not conducted. If it was conducted, it should be put on record, the Court added.
The army officer has sought transfer of case to the Central Bureau of Investigation citing 'conflict of interest' and biased investigation by the Punjab police. Notably, 12 police personnel from Punjab police were suspended and a departmental inquiry was ordered after they allegedly assaulted a Colonel and his son.
The matter is listed for March 28, for further consideration.
- PTC NEWS
