Punjab Govt Dismisses Officer for Facilitating Gangster's Custodial Interview

The Punjab government dismissed DSP Gursher Singh Sandhu for allegedly enabling a TV interview of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi while in custody, citing misconduct and negligence. The dismissal follows a special investigation team's findings, and the state's determination to uphold police discipline.

In a decisive move, the Punjab government has terminated the services of DSP Gursher Singh Sandhu, charged with facilitating a controversial interview of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi during his police custody. The officer was dismissed under the authority granted by Article 311 of the Constitution.

This action stems from findings by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which, under the directive of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, concluded that Sandhu's actions were instrumental in allowing a private news channel to conduct the interview that 'glorified crime and criminals' more than two years ago during Bishnoi's detention in Kharar.

The decision comes amidst a broader crackdown, with prior suspensions of seven police officials linked to the case. The state government seeks to reinforce discipline within its ranks and maintain the integrity of the Punjab Police Service, as emphasized in the dismissal order.

(With inputs from agencies.)