A special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Chandigarh has officially initiated the process to declare notorious gangster Satwinder Singh, widely known as Goldy Brar, a fugitive. This legal action pertains to a brazen firing incident that took place in the early hours of January 19, 2023.
The 2023 Firing Incident That Triggered the Case
The case stems from a terrifying attack outside the residence of businessman Kuldeep Singh Makkar in Chandigarh's Sector 5. According to the charges, four armed assailants on two motorcycles opened fire at around 4:15 am. The attack targeted Makkar's SUV parked within the premises, with two bullets shattering the vehicle's windscreen.
Investigations revealed that the gunfire was an act of intimidation. The attackers had allegedly been demanding a hefty protection money of Rs 2 crore from the businessman on behalf of gangster Goldy Brar. When Makkar ignored their repeated calls, the armed men resorted to violence to threaten him.
Court Issues Proclamation and 30-Day Ultimatum
The special court, acting on the NIA's application, issued a formal proclamation against Goldy Brar under Section 84 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. This legal order commands the accused to present himself before the court within a strict period of 30 days.
The court noted that non-bailable warrants had been issued against Brar previously, but law enforcement agencies could not locate him. After reviewing the NIA's report, the court was satisfied that the accused is deliberately evading arrest and is in hiding. His last known address was recorded as House Number 970/2, Adesh Nagar, Gali Number 3, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Punjab.
Consequences of Non-Appearance: Fugitive Status and Property Attachment
The court's order carries significant weight. If Goldy Brar fails to appear within the stipulated one-month timeframe, he will be formally declared a fugitive. Following this declaration, the court can initiate further legal action, which may include the attachment of his properties.
This move underscores the authorities' intensified efforts to bring the gangster to justice. Meanwhile, NIA sources indicate that attempts to extradite Brar from Canada have been ramped up. The gangster, believed to be based in Canada, is wanted in multiple high-profile cases across India.
