Lawrence Bishnoi interview: HC seeks clarification from Punjab in Kharar CIA staff appointment row
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised serious concerns over the appointment and service extension of a Punjab Police officer in the Kharar CIA staff, where a controversial interview with notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi was conducted. The court has sought an explanation from the Punjab Government on why retired officer Inspector Shiv Kumar was given an extension and allowed to remain in his position, despite such activities taking place during his tenure.
Amicus Curiae advocate Tanu Bedi expressed deep concern over the matter and informed the Punjab and Haryana High Court that Lawrence Bishnoi was repeatedly kept in Kharar CIA staff through several remands. The court questioned whether this was done under external pressure or if Bishnoi’s presence was genuinely required for the investigation.
A Bench comprising Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal and Justice Lapita Banerji raised serious concerns over the extension granted to Inspector Shiv Kumar, who retired in 2023 but continued to serve in the same position until January 2024. The court stated that this is a matter of grave concern, and the Punjab Government must provide a clear explanation as to why Kumar was retained at the CIA Staff, Kharar, post-retirement.
This issue came to light after the Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the court, revealed in its report that the first interview of Lawrence Bishnoi took place at the Kharar CIA Staff, where criminal activities and their glorification were allegedly promoted. The second interview was conducted at Jaipur Central Jail.
The Punjab’s Advocate General (AG) informed the court that show-cause notices have been issued to four officers, including the then SSP of SAS Nagar, who may face disciplinary action. A progress report was also submitted regarding prison security measures, including the installation of jammers, AI-based CCTV cameras, body-worn cameras, X-ray baggage scanners, and a jail inmate calling system.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for October 15 and directed the state government to file its response. It also inquired if the officers who were issued show-cause notices are still holding public positions. In an earlier hearing, Rajasthan’s AG had informed the court that Bishnoi's second interview occurred at Jaipur Central Jail, and the Rajasthan Police would take action on the matter. A Zero FIR had been filed and forwarded to the Jaipur police, which are expected to carry out further investigations.
- PTC NEWS
