High Court Issues Notice On Plea For CBI Probe In Case Where Journalist Was Allegedly Beaten At Instance Of Punjab MLA

The Punjab & Haryana High Court has issued notice on plea seeking CBI probe in a case where a journalist was allegedly beaten and seriously injured on instance of sitting MLA of Punjab's Batala.

Justice Mahabir Singh Sindhu while issuing notice granted interim-protection to the journalist stating that, "in the meanwhile, Respondent No.4-Senior Superintendent of Police, Police District Batala shall ensure to protect the life and liberty of petitioner in accordance with law."

The plea filed by Ramesh Kumar, who is stated to be working as a reporter for the Sting Operation newspaper, alleged that he has been on a hunger strike demanding action against those who disrespected the national flag hoisted in a park located in front of MLA Batala Amansher Singh Kalsi's office.

The petition alleged that Kalsi openly threatened Kumar and others on hunger strike. It is stated that Kumar also wrote to National Human Rights Commission, which directed the authorities to take appropriate action. 

He added further that in October, he was mercilessly beaten by five unknown men at the instance of Kalsi and sustained several injuries. The plea stated that an FIR was not registered when he named the MLA, instead, the police lodged an FIR based on a statement given by an unknown person stated to be close to the MLA.

In the light of the above, Kumar sought CBI probe in the matter and protection for himself and family.

The matter is listed for December 12, for further consideration.

Mr. Dinesh Mahajan, Advocate for the petitioner.

Title: Ramesh Kumar v. State of Punjab & Ors.

Click here to read/download the order