The Punjab and Haryana High Court has come down heavily on the Punjab Police following the brazen public murder of a former kabaddi player inside a crowded stadium. In a stern order, the court has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to appear in person and explain the glaring security lapses that allowed the crime to happen.
Court Slams "Free Run" for Criminals
A division bench comprising Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal expressed deep alarm over the incident that occurred on December 15 during a live-telecast match at a stadium in Sector-79, SAS Nagar, Mohali. The bench noted that two armed assailants entered the venue, fired multiple shots at the victim in front of nearly a thousand spectators, and escaped without any hindrance.
"Criminals armed with pistols entering a stadium, firing several shots and escaping in the presence of a thousand spectators and scores of policemen on duty, indicates that the criminals had a free run," the court observed. It stated that this, along with other recent targeted killings, shows criminals are operating with impunity, raising serious questions about the state's law and order situation.
DGP Must Answer Key Questions
The high court has issued specific directives to the state's top police officer. The DGP must personally explain:
- Why adequate security arrangements were not made at the stadium despite a large gathering.
- What steps are being taken to curb organized crime in Punjab and prevent such incidents.
- Why the two identified shooters have not been apprehended yet.
- Submit the duty roster of police officials deployed at the stadium on the day of the murder.
The bench pointedly remarked that it appeared no effort was made by any police officer present to apprehend the culprits during the shooting, a situation it termed as "deplorable."
Broader Context of Crime and Court's Scrutiny
During the hearing on Wednesday, the state counsel, informed by SP (Investigation) Saurav Jindal, submitted that the two shooters have been identified and efforts are on to arrest them. It was also revealed that five other individuals associated with the crime have already been arrested.
The court's order also referenced its earlier concerns. On December 23, 2023, it had expressed grave worry over the telecast of an interview with gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, fearing it glorified crime and could influence young minds. The DGP had subsequently filed an affidavit detailing crimes, including extortion and targeted killings, following that broadcast.
In response to a later court order from July 16, 2025, the DGP filed another affidavit on August 26 outlining measures taken to combat extortion calls and organized crime. The high court has now fixed the next hearing in this matter for January 15.
