Chandigarh: The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) has sought a detailed status report from the Punjab DGP within 10 days over allegations of custodial assault on anti-drug activist Mohanjit Singh from Sheron village in Sangrur district.
NCM Chairman Harjit Singh Grewal visited Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, where Mohanjit is receiving treatment after his health condition deteriorated. Grewal also met Mohanjit and his family to hear their account of the alleged incident.
Allegations Following Protest at Lok Milni
According to the complaint submitted by Mohanjit’s family, the incident took place on September 2 during a ‘Lok Milni’ programme organised by the AAP government in Sheron village, Sunam.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was addressing the gathering when Mohanjit reportedly displayed a black flag to protest against the growing drug abuse problem in Punjab.
The family alleges that police took him into custody following the protest and that he was subsequently subjected to severe physical assault and electric shocks by personnel from the Sangrur police.
The complaint also raises allegations concerning the handling of his religious identity. It claims that his turban was forcibly removed, his hair was opened and his beard was pulled.
His mother and sister have also alleged mistreatment by police personnel.
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NCM Seeks Police and Medical Records
After meeting the activist and his family, the NCM sought relevant records from senior police officials.
The Commission has asked for:
- Case files and investigation documents
- Relevant medical reports
- Details of action taken by the Punjab Police
- The current factual status and progress of the investigation
The Punjab Police leadership has been directed to submit the requested status report to the Commission within 10 days.
NCM to Examine Report
Grewal said that every citizen is entitled to dignity and protection of their religious identity.
The NCM will examine the report submitted by the Punjab Police before deciding on further action within its statutory mandate.
The Commission’s intervention places the allegations under an additional institutional review while the police investigation and other proceedings, if any, continue.
Focus on Rights and Accountability
The case has drawn attention to allegations concerning both custodial treatment and religious identity. The NCM’s demand for records and a time-bound report is intended to establish the factual position and assess the action taken by the authorities.
The allegations made by Mohanjit’s family have not been treated as established facts, and the Punjab Police’s detailed response will be important in determining what occurred.
The Commission’s next steps will depend on the report and documents submitted by the state police.
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