Punjab Government Orders Probe into Assault on Colonel Pushpinder Bath and Son

• Mar 20, 2025

The Punjab Government has launched an investigation into the brutal assault on Colonel Pushpinder Bath and his 24-year-old son, Angad Singh, by police officials in Patiala on March 13. The inquiry, set to be completed within three weeks, will be led by IAS officer Paramvir Singh, who has been appointed as the Inquiry Officer.

Allegations and Police Action

Colonel Bath, currently serving at the Army headquarters in New Delhi, has alleged that he and his son were attacked by policemen near Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. Dissatisfied with the police’s handling of the case, the family has decided to seek intervention from the Punjab Governor.

In response to public outrage, the Punjab government has assured a fair and transparent investigation. So far, 12 police personnel, including three inspectors, have been suspended in connection with the incident. However, the family and supporters are demanding stricter action, including the arrest of the officers involved.

BJP Leader Demands Immediate Action

Gurtej Dhillon, a BJP leader and close relative of Colonel Bath’s family, has listed three key demands:

1. Registering an FIR based on Colonel Bath’s complaint.
2. Arresting the 12 police officers responsible for the assault.
3. Taking strong disciplinary action against the accused personnel.

Dhillon emphasized that the incident has triggered widespread outrage, particularly among veteran Army officers, who are angered by the treatment of a senior Army official at the hands of the police. A protest has been scheduled outside the DC office in Patiala on March 22 to demand justice.

Family Expresses Discontent Over Investigation

Angad Singh, who sustained injuries in the attack, claimed that no police official has visited them or recorded their statements. He further expressed disappointment over the mere suspension of the accused officers, arguing that more severe action is necessary.

Jaswinder Bath, Colonel Bath’s wife, also voiced her concerns, criticizing the partisan approach of Patiala Police. She pointed out that the names of the 12 suspended officers have not been disclosed, questioning the transparency of the investigation.

"If a serving Army officer can be treated this way, imagine the plight of the common man," she remarked.

As tensions escalate, all eyes are now on the Punjab government’s response and whether justice will be served in this highly sensitive case.