Family of Deceased Warehousing Official Demands Arrest of Former Minister Before Post-Mortem in Amritsar
The family of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, the deceased District Manager of the Punjab State Warehousing Corporation in Amritsar, has issued a firm demand: they will not allow a post-mortem examination of his body until former Punjab Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and other accused individuals are arrested. This stance was announced by Randhawa's wife, Upinder Kaur, during a media address in Amritsar on Sunday, March 22, 2026, as the case continues to escalate into a major political controversy in Punjab.
Family's Ultimatum and Allegations of Pressure
Upinder Kaur, speaking on behalf of the grieving family, asserted that justice must precede any forensic procedures. "We want justice first. The post-mortem will only be conducted and the body will be cremated after the arrest of the accused minister," she declared. She detailed allegations that her husband faced immense pressure, including assault and humiliation, which she believes drove him to take his own life. The family has linked these actions directly to Bhullar and other suspects, intensifying calls for accountability.
Safety Concerns and Delayed FIR Registration
Expressing deep fear for their safety, Upinder Kaur demanded immediate police protection for the family, stating that their lives remain at risk in the wake of the incident. "If anything happens to me or my family, the AAP government will be responsible," she warned, placing blame on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party administration. She also criticized the Punjab Government for what she described as a lack of seriousness, noting that the First Information Report (FIR) was only registered at midnight, suggesting delays that have fueled distrust.
Political Fallout and Opposition Response
The death of Gagandeep Randhawa has triggered a significant political storm across Punjab, with opposition parties rallying for strict action and a transparent investigation. Leaders from various political factions have announced plans to hold protests outside the residence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, demanding an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding Randhawa's demise. This development underscores the growing tensions and public scrutiny over governance and accountability in the state.
As the situation unfolds, the family's refusal to proceed with last rites until arrests are made highlights a broader struggle for justice and safety, putting pressure on authorities to act swiftly in this high-profile case.
