The North News
Chandigarh March 20
Punjab government has appointed Paramvir Singh, Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Patiala, to lead an inquiry into the alleged assault of Army Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath and his son by Punjab Police personnel outside an eatery.
Despite the suspension of 12 police officers, including three inspectors, Patiala police have yet to name them in the First Information Report (FIR), six days after the incident. Meanwhile, a medical report from Government Rajindra Hospital has contradicted claims that the colonel and his son, Angad Singh, had consumed alcohol before the altercation, refuting statements made by the eatery owner.
In an official letter, a copy of which is available with The North News, Punjab government acknowledged that the incident, which took place on March 13 near Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, involved “unwarranted physical force” by police officials against a serving Army officer and his son.
Family members of Colonel Bath have expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing investigation. The govt stated that the state government “holds the members of the Armed Forces in highest esteem” and remains committed to a “fair and impartial inquiry.”
To ensure transparency, the govt has granted Paramvir Singh, IAS, special executive magistrate powers under Section 15 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, for the investigation. He has been directed to complete his inquiry within three weeks and submit a detailed report.
The assault, reportedly triggered by a parking dispute, led to the immediate suspension of the 12 officers and the launch of a departmental inquiry. However, the absence of formal charges against the suspended officers has raised concerns over police accountability in the state.
