Punjab: Colonel, son weren’t drunk: Reports belie police claim

The medical reports of Colonel Pushpinder Bath and his son Angad Singh, who were examined around an hour after the alleged brutal attack on them by Patiala cops on March 13, suggest that they were not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

“This belies the claims of the police that we were consuming alcohol. It was sheer goondaism by the cops and they deserve the harshest punishment,” Angad Singh said.

An FIR is registered in connection with the incident under Section 194(2) of the BNS that prescribes imprisonment for a term that may extend to one month, or with fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both.

“The FIR mentions the complainant alleging that my husband and son were drinking alcohol. This shows intent of the FIR, which is merely an eyewash,” said Jaswinder Bath, wife of Colonel Pushpinder Bath.

“Instead of acting on the complaint submitted by us, with medical records that clearly prove grievous injuries, the Patiala police have registered an FIR based on the complaint of the dhaba owner. He claims he saw my husband and son drinking liquor, but mentions nothing about the 12 men assaulting them. Worst, the FIR does not name any guilty officer, despite our complaint identifying them,” says Jaswinder Bath. She would meet the DGP also, she said.

“I am worried about the security of my family as despite being suspended, the cops concerned continue to enjoy security cover, official vehicles and are present in Patiala. We have requested the police for security, but nothing has been done,” she said. Patiala SSP Nanak Singh was not available for comments.