An Indian Army officer, Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath, was allegedly assaulted by Punjab Police personnel outside a dhaba in Patiala on the night of March 13. The incident has led to the registration of an FIR and a police inquiry.
The Western Command has confirmed that Colonel Bath is undergoing treatment and recovering from his injuries.
Incident Details & Police Response
🔹 The officer was initially treated at a civil hospital, later shifted to a military hospital, and is now recuperating at the Command Hospital in Chandimandir.
🔹 Lt. Gen Wadhwa, Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command, stated, “I am addressing you all about the unfortunate incident wherein Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath was assaulted by certain Punjab policemen outside a dhaba at Patiala.”
🔹 The Punjab Police has expressed regret over the actions of their personnel and has taken immediate disciplinary action.
🔹 Four police officers have been suspended and transferred out of Patiala.
Investigation & Legal Action
📌 An FIR was registered at Civil Lines police station on March 14 based on Colonel Bath’s complaint. His statement included the names of the officers involved and their specific roles in the assault.
📌 The investigation has been assigned to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by an Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), with instructions to complete the probe at the earliest.
📌 Lt. Gen Wadhwa stressed the need for a fair and transparent investigation, stating, “We reiterate the need for a fair and honest investigation in a transparent and time-bound manner to punish the guilty and restore faith in the system.”
The assault on a serving Army officer has sparked concerns over law enforcement accountability and civil-military relations. The SIT probe is expected to bring clarity and ensure justice in the case.