Punjab: 6 policemen suspended for negligence in duty

Punjab: Jalandhar (rural) police has suspended six policemen across the district for gross negligence in duty. The action comes after repeated complaints were received against senior officers, especially those in the jurisdiction of Alawalpur outpost. The suspended policemen include ASI Rajinder Kumar, ASI Avtar Singh, Constable Bikramjit Singh, Senior Constable Bhupinder Singh, Constable Aryanpreet Singh and ASI Jaswinder Singh. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harkamal Preet Singh Khakh said, “The department has taken strict action against these officers as they failed to perform their duties. Negligence will not be tolerated.” ASI Rajinder Kumar, in-charge of Alawalpur outpost, came under the scanner for mishandling a case related to the NDPS Act. Repeated complaints were lodged against him for failing to take timely action. The ASI did not follow due procedure during the investigation, leading to considerable delay. ASI Avtar Singh posted at Lohian police station has been suspended for ignoring a serious land dispute in Pipli village, which could have become a major law and order situation. He also mishandled a case of attempted murder and was found guilty in an inquiry conducted by DSP Shahkot. Despite being aware of the potential risk, he failed to bring the matter to the notice of senior officers. ASI Jaswinder Singh posted at Bhogpur police station has been suspended for poorly handling a dispute case, which had the potential to escalate into a major conflict. The officer exerted undue pressure on the rival party, leading to further complications. Constable Bikramjit Singh, Senior Constable Bhupinder Singh and Constable Aryanpreet Singh have been suspended for being absent for a long time. Constable Aryanpreet was also found to be in collusion with gangsters and criminal elements. Not reporting for duty during the crucial period helped further erode public confidence in the police.