Chandigarh: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday ordered an inquiry into the alleged false police cases and arrests made by Punjab Police during the Tarn Taran bypoll. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has directed the Assembly to submit an inquiry report within 36 hours regarding police cases registered in the constituency after the Model Code of Conduct came into effect.
The Returning Officer has written to the DGP Punjab, directing that the matter be investigated by an officer of at least ADGP rank. In compliance, DGP Punjab has assigned Special DGP (Technical Support Services) Ram Singh to lead the probe and assess all police cases registered during the bypoll.
Earlier in the day, the ECI suspended Tarn Taran SSP Ravijot Kaur Grewal for alleged irregularities. In its report to the Commission, the Police Observer termed the interference by Tarn Taran police and officers from neighbouring states as a “matter of grave concern” for ensuring free and fair elections.
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had earlier lodged a complaint with the ECI, alleging that false police cases were registered against Akali leaders and workers, and that they were being intimidated.
SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal thanked the Election Commission for taking prompt action and said that Akali workers are now hopeful of a fair probe and justice.
