Have Five Retired Police Officers Been Convicted in the 1993 Fake Encounter Case?
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Synopsis
In a monumental ruling, five retired Punjab Police officers have been convicted in a notorious fake encounter case dating back to 1993. This verdict marks a significant step toward justice for victims of human rights violations during a turbulent period in Punjab's history.
Key Takeaways
- Five retired police officers were convicted in a fake encounter case.
- The case revolves around the unlawful killings of seven individuals in 1993.
- The verdict underscores the importance of accountability in law enforcement.
- Sentencing will be announced on August 4, 2025.
- The CBI initiated the case after a Supreme Court directive.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking ruling, the Special CBI Court situated in Mohali has convicted five retired officers from the Punjab Police in relation to a long-standing fake encounter case that involved the unlawful killings of seven individuals back in 1993.
The court determined that they were guilty of criminal conspiracy, abduction, and extrajudicial killings. Among those found guilty are Bhupinderjit Singh (who retired as SSP), Devinder Singh (who retired as DSP), Gulbarg Singh (a former Inspector), Suba Singh (another retired Inspector), and Raghubir Singh (who retired as Sub-Inspector).
The sentencing will be revealed on August 4, 2025. This case traces back to June 27, 1993, when Shinder Singh, Sukhdev Singh, and Desa Singh—Special Police Officers (SPOs) affiliated with the Punjab Police—were kidnapped by a unit led by Inspector Gurdev Singh, who was then the SHO of PS Sirhali.
On the same day, another individual named Balkar Singh, also known as Kala, was abducted. In July 1993, Sarabjit Singh, alias Saba, and Harwinder Singh were taken by Suba Singh, who was then the SHO of PS Verowal. On July 12, 1993, Shinder Singh, Desa Singh, Balkar Singh, and Mangal Singh were murdered in a fake encounter that was allegedly orchestrated by DSP Bhupinderjit Singh and the PS Sirhali police unit.
Following this, on July 28, 1993, Sukhdev Singh, Sarabjit Singh, and Harwinder Singh were similarly killed in a staged encounter by the same DSP and members of the PS Verowal.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) initiated the case on June 30, 1999, in compliance with a Supreme Court order stemming from a criminal writ petition lodged by Mrs. Paramjit Kaur.
A chargesheet was presented in 2002 against ten officers, among whom five had passed away during the lengthy trial.
This verdict is regarded as a pivotal step towards holding accountable those who perpetrated human rights violations during Punjab’s turbulent era in the early 1990s.
Point of View
I believe this verdict serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of accountability in law enforcement. The conviction of these retired officers is a step toward healing for the victims' families and a reassurance that justice prevails, even decades later. It represents a commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights in our nation.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the verdict in the Punjab fake encounter case?
Five retired police officers were convicted for their involvement in a fake encounter case that resulted in the unlawful killings of seven individuals in 1993.
When will the sentencing be announced?
The sentencing for the convicted officers will be revealed on August 4, 2025.
What were the charges against the officers?
The officers were found guilty of criminal conspiracy, abduction, and extrajudicial killings.
Who initiated the CBI investigation?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered the case following a Supreme Court directive in 1999, initiated by a petition from Mrs. Paramjit Kaur.
Why is this verdict significant?
This ruling is significant as it marks a step toward justice for victims of human rights abuses in Punjab during the early 1990s.
