An Amritsar district court has granted a significant extension in the police custody of a key figure linked to a high-profile religious case. The court on Wednesday allowed a five-day extension in the police remand of Satinder Singh Kohli, a former auditor of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and an aide to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Core Details of the Case and Arrest
Kohli stands as the main accused in the sensitive case involving the disappearance of 328 saroops (sacred copies) of the Guru Granth Sahib. These revered volumes went missing from an SGPC office back in 2020, sparking widespread concern and a protracted investigation. The police finally took Kohli into custody on January 1 of this year.
He was presented before the court after the completion of his initial, six-day police custody period. The prosecution argued that his interrogation was incomplete and crucial for the progress of the investigation.
Police Argument and Court's Decision
During the hearing, the investigating agency informed the court that Kohli's interrogation had not been concluded. They emphasized the necessity of taking him into remand once again for sustained and detailed questioning to unravel the full sequence of events and identify any other potential individuals involved.
The court, after considering the police plea, accepted the request and sanctioned a five-day extension of police remand. This decision underscores the complexity and seriousness with which the authorities are treating this matter of deep religious significance.
Current Status and Implications
With this development, Satinder Singh Kohli remains in police custody for further investigation. The case has so far seen two arrests, indicating a widening probe. The extension of remand suggests that police are actively pursuing leads and testimony that could be pivotal in solving the mystery of the missing sacred texts.
The incident continues to draw significant attention due to its religious gravity and the prominent political connections of the accused. The outcome of this extended interrogation phase is keenly awaited by both the Sikh community and legal observers.
