Police deny harassment allegations; case registered against a sarpanch and two others as investigation continues

Sangrur , 08 September (H.S.): Heavy police deployment was made at a hospital in Sangrur on Tuesday following the death of 50-year-old Gulzar Singh, who had raised concerns over drug abuse in Punjab. More than 100 police personnel were stationed in and around the hospital during the post-mortem examination, as villagers and local residents gathered at the premises.

Gulzar Singh had raised the issue of drug sales during a programme in Dirba last week. In a video that subsequently went viral, he expressed concern over his son’s drug addiction and the easy availability of narcotics, while demanding action against the menace.

Villagers alleged that Gulzar Singh faced pressure and harassment after speaking out. Police, however, have denied the allegations of harassment and torture and said that the matter is under investigation.

Gulzar Singh was initially taken to a hospital in Dirba and later shifted to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. He was subsequently taken to Ludhiana for further treatment, where he died.

The incident comes days after anti-drug activist Mohanjit Singh alleged that he was subjected to police torture following a black-flag protest during the Chief Minister’s rally in Sunam. The two incidents have intensified political and public discussion in the region.

Police have registered a case of abetment to suicide and harassment against a sarpanch and two other persons. According to officials, Gulzar Singh had named the sarpanch and two others from his village in his initial statement.

Patiala Range Deputy Inspector General Kuldeep Singh Chahal said that Gulzar Singh’s body would be handed over to his family after the post-mortem examination. Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death and the allegations raised by villagers.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH