The wife of Colonel Jaswant Singh Bath, a retired army officer, met with Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit to protest the alleged police assault and misconduct against her husband. She submitted a three-point memorandum demanding an impartial investigation into the incident, the arrest of the culprits, and police reforms.
This meeting not only caused ripples in administrative circles but also once again raised questions about whether our soldiers are able to live with dignity even after retiring from service.
What is the whole matter?
Colonel Jaswant Singh Bath, who after retiring from the army, was living a peaceful life with his family in a town in Punjab, was allegedly beaten by the local police during a recent dispute. It is alleged that this happened without any valid reason, and Bath sustained serious injuries. His wife told the media, "My husband served the country for 30 years of his life. But over a minor dispute, the police humiliated him, barged into our home, beat him, and tried to intimidate the family. This is unacceptable."
Three-Point Memorandum Submitted to the Governor
- During the meeting with the Governor at Raj Bhavan, Colonel Bath's wife submitted a three-point memorandum, which included the following key demands:
- Immediate arrest and suspension of the guilty police officers: She demanded that a case be registered under relevant sections of the IPC against the police personnel who misbehaved with Colonel Bath and that they be arrested.
- Impartial and independent investigation into the incident: It was demanded that an independent agency, such as the State Human Rights Commission or the CBI, investigate the entire matter to avoid any political or administrative pressure.
- Police reform and ensuring the safety of army families: She requested that the state government issue special guidelines to handle such cases, so that the dignity of ex-servicemen and their families is maintained.
Governor's Response
Governor Banwarilal Purohit seriously acknowledged the memorandum and stated that former military officers are the pride of the nation. If such incidents occur with them, it is a matter of concern not only for the individual but for the entire system. "I will bring this matter before the Chief Minister and the Home Department." This case is no longer just a personal grievance; it has become a subject of discussion. Former servicemen organizations, social activists, and human rights groups have issued statements in support of Colonel Bath.
Former Major and social activist Major Harpal Singh (Retd.) said, "If this can happen to a Colonel today, what will be the condition of an ordinary citizen? The police must be held accountable."
Opposition parties have also cornered the government on this issue. A senior MLA demanded in the assembly that immediate cognizance be taken of this incident and the accountability of the police administration be fixed.
