CBI Investigation Gains Momentum in Colonel Bath Case, FIR filed Against 3 Punjab Police Inspectors

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR in connection with the alleged assault of Army Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath and his son by Punjab Police personnel. The FIR names five individuals, including three police inspectors: Harjinder Singh Dhillon, and two others identified as Happy Boparai and Rauni Singh, along with Rajveer Singh and Surjit Singh.

Background of the Case

The incident occurred on March 13-14, when Colonel Bath and his son Angad were allegedly assaulted by 12 policemen, including four inspectors, over a parking dispute at a roadside eatery near Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. The Colonel suffered a fractured arm, while his son sustained serious head injuries.

Investigation and Developments

The CBI took over the case on July 16, following the Punjab and Haryana High Court's directive, citing dissatisfaction with the investigation conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Chandigarh Police. Notably, four inspectors, including Harjinder Singh Dhillon, had been absconding since the incident but rejoined duty after the case was handed over to the CBI.

Charges and Scope of Investigation

The FIRs, re-registered by the CBI, include charges of attempted murder under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The investigation is expected to uncover the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and determine the extent of police misconduct.