Minorities panel seeks Punjab DGP’s report on Mohanjit ‘custodial torture’ case within 10 days

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Commission Chairman Harjit Grewal meets Sangrur resident Mohanjit Singh, family at Patiala hospital

Patiala, September 8

The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) has sought a detailed report from the Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) on the allegations of custodial torture of Mohanjit Singh, a resident of Sheron village in Sangrur district, within 10 days.

NCM Chairman Harjit Singh Grewal on Tuesday visited Rajindra Hospital here and met Singh, who is undergoing treatment. He also met Mohanjit’s family members and heard their account of the incident.

The commission has sought details of the factual position, action taken so far, status of the inquiry or proceedings and other relevant information concerning the allegations.

According to a complaint submitted to the NCM, Mohanjit allegedly displayed a black flag during a “Lok Milni” programme held at Sheron village in Sunam, Punjab, on September 2, as a symbol of opposition to the drug problem in the state.

The complaint alleged that Singh was subsequently taken into police custody and subjected to beating and torture. It included allegations of injuries and the use of electric shocks.

It also alleged interference with his religious identity, including forcibly opening his “joora” (bun) and pulling his hair and beard. The complaint further alleged that police personnel misbehaved with Mohanjit’s mother and sister.

Grewal said the allegations before the commission were serious, particularly those concerning alleged physical assault, treatment during custody and interference with the religious identity of a member of the Sikh minority community.

He said the commission was not drawing any conclusion about the outcome of the inquiry in advance. The report received from the Punjab Police and available records would be examined before deciding on further appropriate action within the commission’s legal jurisdiction.