News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/4th August 2024
In a shocking incident at the Chandigarh district court, Harpreet Singh, an IRS officer, was fatally shot by his father-in-law, Malwinder Singh Sidhu, a suspended assistant inspector general of the Punjab police. The incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the community and highlighting the severe tensions in the family.
Harpreet Singh, who worked in the irrigation department, had arrived at the district court for a hearing related to a matrimonial dispute with his wife. This was their third mediation session, aimed at resolving ongoing issues. Both families were present in court for the mediation process, hoping to find a resolution.
According to police reports, during the mediation session, Malwinder Singh requested to use the washroom and asked Harpreet to accompany him. It was during this moment of isolation that Malwinder allegedly pulled out a weapon and shot Harpreet twice. The attack, carried out in full public view, left Harpreet gravely injured and led to a chaotic scene as onlookers rushed to his aid.
Videos of the incident quickly went viral, showing Harpreet’s family members and others present in the court premises crying for help. Harpreet was swiftly transported to the government hospital in Sector 16 by family members and a few advocates. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
Malwinder Singh Sidhu was arrested shortly after the incident. His history with the law enforcement community is marred by previous allegations. In November of the previous year, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau had registered a case against Sidhu for exploiting his position. At that time, he was serving as the Assistant Inspector General of the Human Rights Cell of Punjab Police. The charges against him included fraud, blackmail, extortion, and bribery from government employees, leading to his suspension from duty.
The tragic death of Harpreet Singh has not only brought immense grief to his family but also raised serious questions about the legal and familial dynamics that led to such a horrific outcome. The incident underscores the extreme tensions that can arise in matrimonial disputes and the potential for violence even in supposed places of mediation and resolution.
The community and legal fraternity in Chandigarh are left grappling with the aftermath of this brutal act. It is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within family structures and the critical need for effective intervention and support mechanisms to prevent such tragedies. As the investigation continues, the focus will be on understanding the full extent of the familial conflict and the steps that could have been taken to avert this senseless loss of life.
Harpreet Singh’s death in such a violent manner has left an indelible mark on all those who knew him and the broader community. The incident calls for introspection and a reinforced commitment to addressing the underlying issues that lead to such extreme actions. The hope is that justice will be served, and measures will be put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
