Chandigarh: Shiromani Akali Dal president and former Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal may face fresh scrutiny in the Behbal Kalan firing case after former Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh recorded his statement before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the matter.
According to sources, Giani Raghbir Singh told investigators that Sukhbir Badal had accepted responsibility related to the Behbal Kalan incident during his appearance before Sri Akal Takht Sahib. He claimed the statement was made publicly and was video recorded, with the footage preserved in the Akal Takht’s official records.
In his statement, the former Jathedar alleged that firing on unarmed protesters at Behbal Kalan had been carried out as part of a conspiracy. He said the incident deeply hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community and stressed the need for the truth to emerge.
Sources said the SIT may now examine the former Jathedar’s testimony along with the alleged video recording and other available evidence. If the claims are corroborated during the investigation, they could pose fresh legal and political challenges for Sukhbir Badal.
The Behbal Kalan firing took place on October 14, 2015, when police opened fire on protesters demonstrating against incidents of sacrilege. Two people were killed and several others were injured in the incident.
The case has remained a major political and religious issue in Punjab for nearly a decade. The SIT has already filed chargesheets against several police officials, while trial proceedings are currently underway in a Chandigarh court. The investigation continues.
