Daily News
Punjab Fake Encounter Case: Ex-Officer Paramjit Singh Sentenced
Introduction
The scars of police misconduct have reshaped lives in Punjab, leaving repercussions that echo across generations. A poignant example of this is the case of Charanjit Singh, wh
Introduction
The scars of police misconduct in the Punjab fake encounter case have reshaped lives across generations. A poignant example is the case of Charanjit Singh, whose father, Surmukh Singh, was tragically killed in a fake encounter in 1993. Recently, the sentencing of former Punjab Police officer Paramjit Singh has reopened deep wounds for Charanjit and countless others affected by the atrocities of that dark period in the state’s history.
Paramjit Singh’s Sentencing
In the latest development in the Punjab Fake Encounter Case, on Wednesday, a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Mohali sentenced Paramjit Singh, a former station house officer in Beas, to ten years in prison for his role in abducting and unlawfully killing two Punjab Police constables, Surmukh Singh and Sukhwinder Singh. Both victims were falsely labeled as terrorists during a time of turmoil, when genuine accountability often became veiled in brutality. Alongside the prison term, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on Singh, underscoring the severity of his crimes and the ongoing struggle for justice within Punjab.
Charanjit Singh’s Struggles
Born after his father’s untimely death, Charanjit Singh faced an uphill battle throughout his life. His mother, dealing with profound grief, took him to her maternal grandparents for a stable environment after remarrying. It wasn’t until his teenage years that he first met his paternal grandfather, who provided some insight into the family’s troubled past.
Charanjit recalls, “I was born after the murder of my father, Surmukh Singh. My mother took me to my maternal great-grandparents. She got remarried, and my maternal grandparents raised me.” Yet the weight of the stigma attached to his father’s legacy loomed large, particularly when he sought a position in the police force himself.
The Impact of Stigma on Career Prospects
In 2012, Charanjit prepared to join the police force and triumphantly cleared all physical and medical tests. However, during the counseling stage, officials labeled him the son of a “terrorist” and barred him from the career his father once held with pride.
“Officials told me they couldn’t give me a job because my father was a terrorist,” he said, capturing the pain families endure under that stigma. His grandfather had once promised to help him secure employment through his connection to Paramjit Singh, but that tie ended in betrayal. “My grandfather knew Paramjit Singh, who now stands convicted for my father’s fake encounter. At the time, I couldn’t understand what that meant,” Charanjit reflected.
A Legacy of Injustice
The systemic failures that allowed such tragedies to persist are rooted in a culture of impunity that characterized Punjab during the 1990s. Under the guise of fighting insurgency, many individuals became victims of extrajudicial killings, their rights stripped under the pretext of national security.
Jaswant Singh Khalra, a dedicated human rights activist, spearheaded the fight to expose the plight of victims like Surmukh and Sukhwinder Singh. Khalra relentlessly uncovered that the police had cremated both constables’ bodies as ‘unclaimed bodies,’ a deliberate denial of justice that the state perpetuated. Tragically, police abducted and murdered Khalra himself in 1995 in a similarly brutal act.
His wife, Paramjit Kaur Khalra, courageously sought the Supreme Court’s intervention, which ultimately prompted a thorough investigation leading to the conviction of Paramjit Singh. The court’s ruling, however, came after three decades of struggles and pain, underscoring the difficulty of achieving justice in cases of state violence.
The Emotional and Economic Toll on Families
Charanjit’s family, entrenched in economic hardship, finds itself battle-worn from the prolonged quest for justice. Now working as a private driver making Rs 12,000 a month, he reflects on the lost opportunities his family could have had. “We were from a Dalit family. My father’s job was a great source of hope to help us recover from poverty,” he stated, poignantly illustrating how the false labels and unyielding stigma have hindered not just his family, but also erased the prospect of upward mobility.
The Effects on Sukhwinder Singh’s Family
Meanwhile, the plight of Sukhwinder Singh’s family, who similarly endured the loss of their son in the fake encounter, echoes Charanjit’s grief. A member of a Dalit family, Sukhwinder was the first in his household to secure a government position. Amritpal Singh, his nephew, described the hopes his grandfather had for the young constable, but those hopes vanished when Sukhwinder lost his life. “My grandfather spent all his life seeking justice,” Singh lamented, recalling his grandfather’s passing in 2015 without witnessing any resolution to their ongoing anguish.
Calls for Justice and Recognition
Charanjit’s disillusionment with the system is palpable, extending beyond personal grievances. In addition to calling for his job and recognition, he expressed a broader demand for systemic reform and reparations for families impacted by such violence.
As he succinctly put it, “I demand that the government give me commendation and dues. I also want my job back, which was denied to me because they tagged my father as a terrorist.” His assertion reflects a yearning for accountability in a system that has repeatedly failed marginalized communities.
The Cultural Impact Amidst Ongoing Struggles
The narratives of Charanjit Singh and the Khalra family intertwine with ongoing cultural expressions within Punjab. The film “Punjab 95,” which chronicles the life and death of Jaswant Singh Khalra, remains stuck in the approval process, reflecting societal ambivalence towards this turbulent history. Charanjit claimed limited knowledge about the film, stating, “I don’t know much about what is happening around. I have to raise my children.”
Moreover, his voice underscores the struggle to navigate daily life amid past traumas, with many families trapped between the desire for closure and the demands of the present. Furthermore, the memories of the injustices suffered serve not only as a burden but also as a call to action for future generations, ensuring that the demand for justice remains alive in the public consciousness.
Conclusion
As Punjab continues to grapple with the repercussions of past injustices exemplified by the Punjab fake encounter case, the cases of Surmukh Singh, Sukhwinder Singh, and their families stand as reminders of the long road still required to achieve true justice. The story of Charanjit Singh in the Punjab Fake Encounter Case speaks to broader themes of perseverance, the struggles against systemic injustice, and an ongoing quest for recognition within a landscape that desperately needs to confront its past.
Daily News
Pakistan Points Finger at India Over Waterlogging at Wagah Border
Waterlogging at the Wagah Border
AMRITSAR: A viral video showing the Wagah border’s parade area on the Pakistani side has raised concerns.
Waterlogging at the Wagah Border
AMRITSAR: A viral video showing the Wagah border’s parade area on the Pakistani side has raised concerns. The video shows Rangers standing in knee-deep water, making many uncomfortable, while the Indian side appears neat and dry. In response, Pakistan Points Finger at India, blaming the elevation of GT Road for the flooding issues. 🌧️
Pakistan has reacted by blaming India. They say that the elevation of the Grand Trunk Road on India’s side is the reason for the water problem on their side. However, the truth is a bit different.
What India Has Done
India has taken steps to prevent such issues. They have set up a rainwater harvesting system. This system helps collect rainwater and manage drainage better. Thanks to these improvements, there was no waterlogging at the Indian side during the recent rains.
Heavy Rains and Flooding
Recently, heavy rainfall hit the region on August 8 and 9. This caused severe flooding on the Pakistani side. In contrast, the Indian side managed to stay mostly dry. Only a small area near the international border gates faced some water accumulation.
Pakistan’s Efforts to Manage Water
Due to the problems caused by flooding, Pakistan has raised the elevation of GT Road on their side. They hoped this would help manage how water flows away during heavy rains.
However, even with these changes, the area near the parade was still flooded. Sandbags were piled up at various points ahead of the daily flag ceremony. This flooding is a clear sign of the struggle Pakistan faces with the ongoing rains.
What the Border Forces Say
Atul Fulzele, the Inspector General of the Border Security Force (BSF) for Punjab, stated that the heavy rain on August 8 and 9 caused the major flooding. The video likely showed conditions from that time. He reported, “There has been no waterlogging at any of the three sites of the ceremonial flag-lowering ceremonies – Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadqi.”
However, conditions were not the same at all locations. Many border outposts (BoPs) on the Punjab Frontier were affected by flooding. Some areas had to be evacuated due to the heavy rain.
Ongoing Water Management Issues
The situation also highlights how seasonal monsoon patterns impact many regions, including Punjab. Monsoons bring a lot of rain, which can lead to both heavy flooding and water management problems.
Though both countries share the responsibility of managing water around this region, the recent events have brought some blame game. Pakistan’s elevation of their roads has not been enough to fix the issue, clearly visible from the viral video.
Conclusion
The incident at the Wagah border serves as a reminder of how serious water management can be. While Pakistan Points Finger at India, both nations need to work together to find better solutions and help each other during the challenging monsoon season.🌧️🤝
Daily News
Flood Warning in Mohali as Ghaggar River Water Levels Rise
Urgent Flood Alert for Mohali Residents
On Friday morning, the SAS Nagar administration issued a flood warning.
Urgent Flood Alert for Mohali Residents
On Friday morning, the SAS Nagar administration issued a Flood Warning in Mohali after the Ghaggar River’s water discharge crossed 70,000 cusecs at 8 AM. Local officials are concerned about the safety of nearby villages.
Villages on Alert
The warning affects nine villages in the Dera Bassi area. These villages are:
- Tiwana
- Khajoor Mandi
- Sadhanpur
- Sarsini
- Alamgir
- Dangdhera
- Mubarikpur
- Mirpur
- Bakarpur
Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert. They should prepare to move to safer locations if needed. The heavy rains in the catchment area and the opening of Sukhna Lake’s floodgates have caused the water levels to rise.
Safety Measures for Residents
The administration has given clear instructions to the people:
- Avoid going near the riverbanks.
- Move livestock to higher ground.
- Follow the updates from the control rooms.
Families should keep important documents and medicines ready. It’s also important to help the elderly and children during any evacuation process.
Further Instructions Awaited
Local officials say they will provide more instructions if the situation worsens. Residents should rely on verified sources for updates. They should not attempt to cross flooded roads, especially inundated causeways.
Contact Information
For updates, residents can contact:
- DC office control room at 0172-2219506
- Mobile: 76580-51209
- Dera Bassi office: 01762-28322
Concern Over Infrastructure
The administration has taken steps to manage the water flow from Sukhna Lake. The floodgates of Sukhna Lake have been opened several times this monsoon season. This allows excess water to flow into the Ghaggar River, upping the risk of flooding.
There have been issues with local choke points. One spot, the Mubarikpur causeway, has experienced many closures due to overflowing water. This situation shows how vulnerable Dera Bassi’s infrastructure is during heavy rainfall.
Recent Measures and Monitoring
After significant damage last year, the embankments near Tiwana have been strengthened. These improvements have helped manage the recent high water flows. However, some areas still need close monitoring for erosion. The water resources department has installed stone revetments and studs along these particular stretches this monsoon.
Conclusion
The situation remains serious for those living by the Ghaggar River. With heavy rain continuing and the risk of flooding high, the SAS Nagar administration’s warning serves as a crucial alert for local residents. Everyone should stay informed and prepared to ensure their safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry! 🌧️
Daily News
Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh & Gold Ornaments in Ludhiana
Incident Overview
A man named Deepak Singh from Basant Nagar has reported a serious crime.
Incident Overview
A man named Deepak Singh from Basant Nagar has reported a serious crime. His Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh in cash and gold jewelry from their home. This incident happened in the Daba area of Ludhiana.
Deepak Singh works at a bank. On August 25, while he was at work and their children were at school, Dimple and Mehak allegedly left the house together. A tenant nearby informed Deepak that they had seen the two women leaving with bags of household items.
Discovery of the Crime
When Deepak returned home, he found that the cash and gold were missing. This led him to approach the local police for help. The police registered a case against Dimple and Mehak under Section 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with certain types of theft and runaway acts.
Officials at Daba police station confirmed the situation. They mentioned, “A case has been registered, and efforts are on to trace their mobile numbers to locate them.” Investigating these cases quickly is important, especially as violent crimes, including thefts and robberies, have been increasing in Punjab. This is especially true in cities like Ludhiana and Mohali, where such incidents happen more frequently.
Background of the Family
Deepak Singh married Dimple in 2013, and they have two children together. The family dynamics now seem affected by this incident. It raises questions about trust and safety within families and communities.
Related Incident: Elderly Woman Robbed
In another shocking event, an elderly woman named Rama Sharma was robbed of her gold bangles. This incident took place on Pakhowal Road while she was shopping for guavas. Rama lives in Housefed Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. She and her husband were approached by two young men on a motorcycle who asked for directions.
While distracted, the robbers swiftly yanked the bangles off Rama’s wrists and sped away. This theft has added to the growing concern about safety in the area. The Dugri police station has filed a case against the unidentified motorcycle-borne youths.
Ongoing Investigations
Investigating officer Baljit Kumar stated that CCTV footage from the market area is being reviewed. This may help catch the robbers in Rama’s case. Videos from surveillance cameras are often key in solving crimes.
Safety and Crime in Ludhiana
Ludhiana, which is the largest city in Punjab, has a rich history of industrial growth. It is known as the heart of India’s hosiery and textile industry. However, as the city grows, so does the concern for safety. Events like these remind the public how important it is to stay vigilant.
Punjab’s cities, particularly Ludhiana and Mohali, have seen a rise in violent crimes. Many residents are worried and seek better safety measures. Efforts to improve law and order are vital for community security.
The Influence of Chandigarhs’ Cleanliness
Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, was rated the cleanest city in India in the 2021 Swachh Survekshan survey. Maintaining cleanliness and safety is crucial for every city. People feel more secure in clean, orderly environments. Encouraging community involvement can help fight crime and improve safety.
The Chandigarh Tricity area hosts about 1.5 million people. This large population means that communities must work together. Neighborhood watch programs can help reduce crime rates. Such initiatives encourage people to support one another.
Conclusion
As the investigation into Deepak Singh’s case, where his Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh, and the robbery of Rama Sharma continues, it highlights the urgent need for improved safety in Ludhiana. The city’s reputation as a thriving industrial center must also include a commitment to community safety. People living in Ludhiana deserve to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods.
With efforts from the community and law enforcement, we can hope for a safer environment for everyone. Awareness and cooperation are essential in reducing crime and creating a trusting community.
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