Amritsar Sahib (KP) – During the court hearing held this past week in the Ajit Phoola execution case, the accused, Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, alleged that they are being deprived of basic necessities in jail. Both Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, who were previously barred in Jail, are responsible for bringing the pseudo-Nihang Ajit Phoola to justice after they were enticed by police officials.The hearing was held in the court of Sh. Harsh Mehta (Chief Judicial Magistrate) in Sri Amritsar. Along with Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, six others were presented in the court of the honorable judge to submit their statements. However, when asked to record their statements, both Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh refused to testify. They however put to light the horrifying tales of the treatment they have faced at the hands of police officers after Phoola's slaying.
Navtej Singh alleged that he is forced to spend time in a dark and isolated area of the jail. He is forced to stay there without any supply of water or other necessities. In addition, he is often interrogated and physically and mentally abused by police officers. He is forced to remain thirsty and hungry for long periods of time which has worsened his health. According to Navtej Singh, just before presenting them in the court, he and his associate Harchand Singh were abused. Navtej Singh labeled his and Harchand Singh’s treatment by the police as being no different from the way animals would be treated by an insane person.
Judge Sh. Harsh Mehta held that he would order an inquiry into the matter. He further presented this case to Sessions Judge Sh. S.P. Bangar. Furthermore, the next court hearing was announced to take place on October 9 in which these matters will be discussed at a greater depth.
The type of treatment Navtej Singh and Harchand singh are facing from the Police certainly needs an inquiry at a high level. According to reports by multiple human rights organizations, police often use physical controls during "interrogation sessions." During the 80’s and early 90’s, many harsh techniques were used by the police, which in turn also resulted in the deaths of many.
Sikh organizations based in Punjab should keep a close eye on all developments in this case. Harchand Singh and Navtej Singh's case could solve many complexities as it puts a question to the role of several senior police officers in the murders of Sikh freedom fighters.
