The Mohali court has taken a strict view of the prolonged delay in recording witness statements in the 2018 firing case involving Punjabi singer and actor Parmish Verma. With the prosecution repeatedly failing to complete its evidence despite several opportunities, the court has now given the police administration a final chance to conclude the pending witness examination.
The matter will next be heard on September 17.
Non-Bailable Warrants Issued Against Police Personnel
As part of its latest order, the court has issued fresh non-bailable warrants against police personnel whose statements remain pending. The warrants have been issued against ASI Sukhpal Singh, ASI Jaspal Singh, SI Malkiat Singh and ASI Seva Singh.
The court has also written to DIG Rupnagar Range, directing the senior police officer to ensure that the remaining witness evidence is completed on the next date of hearing.
Court Expresses Displeasure Over Repeated Delays
The prosecution had already been granted several opportunities to complete its evidence, but the process remained unfinished. The court observed that the repeated delays had unnecessarily prolonged the proceedings.
Charges in the case were framed on January 18, 2024. The court has now made it clear that the prosecution must complete its remaining evidence on the fixed date.
An application seeking an early conclusion of the trial was also filed by accused Ashish.
Four Accused To Be Produced In Court
The court has issued production warrants for September 17 for Dilpreet Singh alias Baba, Sukhpreet Singh Budha, Ashish and Harjinder Singh.
The latest order comes as the court seeks to move the long-pending case towards completion.
What Happened To Parmish Verma In 2018?
The case dates back to the night of April 13, 2018, when Parmish Verma was returning home to Mohali with his friend Kulwant Chahal after attending a promotional event at Elante Mall in Chandigarh.
Near Sector 91 in Mohali, unidentified attackers allegedly followed their vehicle and opened fire. Parmish Verma and his friend sustained gunshot injuries to their legs and were subsequently admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali.
Dilpreet Baba Claimed Responsibility
The incident gained widespread attention after gangster Dilpreet Singh Baba allegedly claimed responsibility for the attack through a social media post the following day. He also reportedly issued a threat to the singer.
According to the police investigation, Parmish Verma had allegedly been targeted after a purported extortion demand was not fulfilled. Police later arrested Dilpreet Singh Baba and some of his alleged associates in connection with the case.
Case Still Awaits Completion Of Evidence
Years after the alleged attack, the case continues to move through the trial process. The court's latest order reflects growing concern over the delay in completing witness evidence.
With September 17 now set as the next hearing date, the prosecution has been given what the court has described as a final opportunity to complete the remaining evidence.
