High Court Pushes Accountability in Lawrence Bishnoi Jail Interview Scandal

The Punjab and Haryana High Court urged that disciplinary action on officers involved in facilitating gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's interview in police custody should include higher-ranking officials. The government has committed to initiate such actions, including improved jail security measures. The case returns to court on September 24.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has emphasized that punitive actions against officers who facilitated a jailed interview with notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi should not be limited to lower-ranking officials but should also encompass higher-ranking personnel. The statement came after the Punjab government assured that disciplinary proceedings would commence.

A special investigation team revealed that interviews with Bishnoi, known for glorifying crime, were conducted while he was in custody in Punjab and Rajasthan. Following the revelation, the court directed the initiation of FIRs and stressed the need for sweeping changes in jail security, including the installation of AI-based CCTV cameras and jammers.

The court has set a follow-up hearing for September 24, expecting updates on the implementation of these measures and progress in disciplinary actions against involved officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)