The Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken a stern stance against the deteriorating law and order situation in the region, particularly concerning gang-related violence. This comes in the wake of a shocking and brazen incident where a man was shot at point-blank range during a live-streamed kabaddi match in Mohali. The court has now summoned the Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, to personally appear and explain the measures being taken to curb such criminal audacity.
A Brazen Attack in Broad Daylight
The incident that triggered the court's ire occurred on February 23 at a kabaddi match in Shahi Majra village, Mohali. In a scene captured on live broadcast, a man identified as Sandeep Singh, alias Sunny, was shot multiple times by assailants who walked onto the field. The victim, who sustained serious injuries, is reportedly associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The attackers are believed to be linked to rival Goldy Bath gang.
The High Court bench, comprising Justices G.S. Sandhawalia and Lapita Banerji, expressed deep frustration over the incident. They highlighted how criminals seem to be operating with impunity, even targeting individuals at public sporting events. "We are of the considered view that the DGP, Punjab, is required to be present in court to explain as to what steps are being taken to curb such incidents," the court stated, scheduling the hearing for March 13.
Court Questions Police Inaction and "Free Run" of Criminals
The judges did not mince words during the proceedings. They pointedly questioned the apparent "free run" enjoyed by criminal elements, suggesting a failure of the police intelligence and preventive machinery. The court noted that such a public shooting indicates a severe breakdown in law enforcement, allowing gang rivalries to play out violently in open spaces.
The bench was hearing a petition related to the shooting, which also referenced another violent episode in Kurali, where a murder took place. The connection of these incidents to inter-gang rivalries underscored the systemic challenge. The court's directive to the DGP is clear: provide a concrete and effective action plan to demonstrate that the state machinery is not helpless against organized crime.
What the High Court Demands from Punjab Police
The summons to the top police officer is a significant step, signaling judicial intervention at the highest level. The court expects DGP Gaurav Yadav to present a detailed account of:
- The current status of the investigation into the Mohali kabaddi match shooting.
- Specific strategies being deployed to dismantle the networks of gangs like Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Bath.
- Measures to enhance intelligence gathering and preventive policing to stop such attacks before they occur.
- An explanation for the perceived gap that allows criminals to execute such bold plans.
The incident has not only raised legal and security concerns but has also sent shockwaves through the sporting community in Punjab, where kabaddi is a deeply popular traditional sport. The violation of a sporting arena by gun violence has been perceived as a new low in the gang wars plaguing the state.
Broader Implications for Law and Order in Punjab
This judicial move places the Punjab Police leadership directly under the scanner. The state has been grappling with gang violence and extortion threats for years, often spilling over from prisons. The High Court's intervention highlights that routine assurances are no longer sufficient; tangible results and visible action are demanded.
The upcoming hearing on March 13 will be closely watched. It will test the administration's resolve and capability to restore a sense of security among citizens. The court's message is unequivocal: the era of criminals dictating terms and disrupting public life with fear must end. The onus is now on the police leadership to prove that the rule of law prevails.
