In a massive development, Punjab and Haryana High Court on July 16 ordered CBI investigation into the assault case of Colonel Pushpinder Bath and his son.
For the unversed, the incident occurred on the night of March 13–14 in Patiala, where Colonel Bath and his son were allegedly assaulted. As per reports, despite the seriousness of the assault, police did not act initially.
Only after the matter reached the Ministry of Defence and Army Headquarters, a by-name FIR registered nine days later. Subsequently, 12 police personnel, including 5 Inspectors, were suspended.
Before the CBI, Colonel Bath assault case was being investigated by the Chandigarh Police, but the court observed that the UT Police had failed to conduct an impartial and effective investigation.
The Colonel’s wife, speaking to the media, welcomed the High Court’s decision, calling it a “relief” and expressed hope that the truth would now come to light.
As per reports, three key grounds were cited in the petition.
Three months have passed since the FIR was lodged and the case transferred to the SIT, but no arrests have been made so far.
During a previous hearing, when Inspector Roni’s petition was under consideration, the investigation officer had assured the court that if the plea was dismissed, the accused would be arrested. Yet, no such action has been taken.
Colonel Pushpinder Bath, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, described the attack as an example of "extreme brutality, arrogance, and inhuman behavior."
