Punjab and Haryana High Court takes strong stand on Lawrence Bishnoi interview case

Chandigarh: In a significant development, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has expressed serious concerns over the Lawrence Bishnoi interview case, directing strict action. The court strongly criticized the Advocate General (AG) of Punjab and summoned the state’s Chief Secretary and Home Secretary to appear before it by 2 PM, adjourning the proceedings until that time.

During the resumed hearing, the Advocate General assured the court that the Punjab government was ready to take all necessary action as directed by the court. Punjab’s Home Secretary, Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, attended the hearing via video conference, stating, “We should be made aware of the report so that action can be taken against the responsible officials.” He added that it was unclear which officers were present when the alleged criminal, Lawrence Bishnoi, traveled with a large convoy.

The court questioned Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Prabodh Kumar, asking if the report could be shared with the Punjab government to identify those involved. ADGP Kumar informed the court that the investigation was still pending.

During the hearing, the High Court reminded the Home Secretary that details of the interview’s time and location were already recorded in previous orders and urged the government to proceed accordingly. However, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav argued that the two ongoing investigations should not be treated equally.

Advocate Tanu Bedi, assisting the High Court in the case, noted that DGP Yadav had previously stated that no interview with Bishnoi had taken place in Punjab. The court reiterated that the investigation conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) was complete, and it was now time for action, not further investigation.