Chandigarh: In a dramatic development, the Punjab & Haryana High Court adjourned the hearing of a PIL seeking a CBI investigation into the mysterious suicide of senior Haryana IPS officer Y. Puran Kumar.
The petition, filed by Navneet Kumar, president of a Haryana-based NGO, demanded an independent probe, citing concerns over the impartiality of the Chandigarh Police investigation.
Senior IPS Officer Dies Under Mysterious Circumstances
According to reports, Kumar, a senior officer of the Haryana cadre, took his life at his Chandigarh residence on October 7. The officer reportedly left behind suicide notes naming several officials, including Haryana DGP Shatrujeet Kapur and Rohtak SP Narendra Bijarniya, alleging harassment and caste-based discrimination.
Read also: Laptop May Hold Answers: Court Allows SIT to Probe Digital Evidence in IPS Y Puran Kumar’s Death
The High Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry, adjourned the case after the petitioner’s counsel requested additional time to present arguments.
Allegations of Harassment and Caste-Based Discrimination
The suicide notes allegedly accused eight IPS officers and two IAS officers of creating a hostile work environment, hinting at systemic abetment and institutional bias.
The petitioner argued that the Chandigarh Police, tasked with investigating the case, may face conflicts of interest due to administrative overlaps with the Haryana and Central governments. This raises questions about the credibility of the ongoing probe.
Why CBI Probe is Being Demanded
The PIL emphasized the need for a CBI investigation to ensure impartiality. Being a high-ranking officer, Kumar’s death under suspicious circumstances has caused a nationwide stir. Advocates of the plea insist that only an independent agency can uncover the truth behind the alleged harassment and administrative lapses.
Public & Media Reaction
News of the officer’s suicide and the High Court’s adjournment has drawn significant attention across social media and national news channels.
Experts highlight that the case could set a precedent for transparency and accountability in civil services.
Way Ahead
The High Court is expected to resume hearing in the coming weeks. Observers and civil society groups are watching closely, pushing for complete transparency and justice in this high-profile case.