Patiala: Nearly a week after the alleged custodial assault of Mohanjit Singh, National Commission for Minorities (NCM) chairman Harjit Singh Grewal has sought a detailed report from the Punjab DGP within 10 days.
Grewal visited Rajindra Hospital in Patiala on Tuesday and met Mohanjit Singh, a member of the Sikh minority community from Sheron village in Sangrur district, who is currently undergoing treatment. He also spoke at length with Singh and his family members and personally heard their account of the incident and the allegations submitted to the commission.
The complaint was filed by Singh’s family in connection with an incident on September 2, when Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was addressing workers and residents during an AAP-organised “Lok Milni” programme in Sheron, Sunam.
According to the complaint, Mohanjit Singh had allegedly shown a black flag in protest against the drug problem in Punjab. He was subsequently taken into police custody and allegedly subjected to physical assault and torture by Sangrur police, including beatings, injuries and the use of electric shocks.
The complaint also contains allegations concerning interference with his religious identity. It alleges that his joora was forcibly opened and that his hair and beard were pulled. The family has also alleged that police personnel misbehaved with Singh’s mother and sister.
NCM seeks details of investigation
The NCM has taken cognisance of the complaint and written to the Punjab DGP seeking a report within 10 days. The commission has sought details of the facts of the case, action taken so far, the status of the investigation and other relevant information concerning the allegations.
The commission said it would examine the report submitted by Punjab Police and, based on the facts and material placed before it, decide on further appropriate action within its jurisdiction.
Grewal said the allegations were serious, particularly those relating to alleged physical violence, custodial treatment and interference with the religious identity of a member of the Sikh minority community.
He said every citizen was entitled to dignity, respect and protection of their religious identity. Grewal added that the commission would not prejudge the outcome of the investigation but would ensure that the complaint was examined seriously and that the concerns of the alleged victim and his family were not ignored.
