The legal battle for temporary freedom faced another setback for pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh as the Punjab and Haryana High Court once again deferred the hearing on his parole application. This marks a continuation of the delays in the judicial process concerning the detained chief of the 'Waris Punjab De' organization.
Another Adjournment in the Courtroom
The bench, comprising Justice Sureshwar Thakur and Justice Lalit Batra, decided to postpone the hearing after the state counsel requested more time. The counsel for the Punjab government informed the court that they needed additional days to file a comprehensive reply to the parole petition submitted by Amritpal Singh. The court has now scheduled the next hearing for July 29, 2024.
This is not the first time the plea has been delayed. Previously, the hearing was adjourned on July 8, and before that, the court had sought a response from the state government by July 1. The repeated postponements highlight the complex and sensitive nature of the case surrounding the controversial figure.
Amritpal Singh's Current Incarceration
Amritpal Singh has been in custody since his dramatic arrest in April 2023 following a widespread manhunt across Punjab. He is currently detained at the Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam, along with several of his associates. The state authorities had moved him and his aides out of Punjab, citing security concerns.
He is facing a series of serious charges under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The charges are related to his activities and speeches, which authorities allege were aimed at reviving separatist sentiments in Punjab.
The Parole Petition and Its Implications
The parole application, filed by Amritpal Singh's legal team, seeks his temporary release from prison. While the specific grounds for seeking parole have not been publicly detailed in the latest reports, such petitions are typically filed for reasons like attending family functions, medical emergencies, or other personal necessities.
The continued deferral of the hearing means that Amritpal Singh will remain behind bars in Dibrugarh for at least several more weeks until the next court date. Each adjournment extends the period of judicial limbo, keeping the fate of his plea uncertain. The state government's deliberate approach in preparing its reply suggests a cautious and thorough examination of the potential ramifications of granting parole to the leader.
This case is being closely watched, as it touches upon issues of law and order, state security, and the legal treatment of individuals accused of activities that threaten national integrity. The final decision of the Punjab and Haryana High Court will set a significant precedent.
