The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken significant steps in the case involving the alleged assault on Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath and his son, by filing a chargesheet against four Punjab Police inspectors. This development comes after the incident, which took place in Patiala in March, attracted considerable public attention.
The chargesheet has been submitted to the Mohali CBI Court against Inspectors Harjinder Singh, Shaminder Singh, Harry Boparai, and Ronnie Singh. They face serious allegations that include grievous hurt and wrongful restraint, setting the stage for a forthcoming trial.
The altercation reportedly began during the night of March 13–14, stemming from a minor parking dispute near a local eatery. Colonel Bath contended that a group of plainclothes officers, including the implicated inspectors and their associates, launched an unprovoked attack on him after he identified himself as an Army officer. As a result of the confrontation, Colonel Bath sustained a fractured arm or dislocated elbow, while his son suffered injuries to the head. In addition to physical harm, the Bath family alleged threats of a “fake encounter,” the snatching of the colonel’s identification card and mobile phone, and a prolonged assault. The emergence of CCTV footage depicting the violence further fueled public outrage.
Initially, the investigation into the incident was handled by the Punjab Police, followed by the Chandigarh Police. However, these early inquiries faced accusations of inefficiency and bias. Criticism grew after an FIR was filed against “unidentified persons,” based on a complaint from the owner of the dhaba, while Colonel Bath’s FIR was lodged eight days later.
Public demonstrations led by ex-servicemen, combined with pressing public sentiment and intervention from the Punjab Governor, prompted the Punjab and Haryana High Court to transfer the case to the CBI in July 2025, citing concerns over a “tainted investigation.” This decision was subsequently upheld by the Supreme Court in August, granting the CBI full authority to conduct an independent investigation.
Following their takeover, the CBI formed two separate FIRs—one related to Colonel Bath’s allegations, which included serious charges like attempt to murder, and another concerning the dhaba owner’s complaint. The recent filing of the chargesheet signifies the conclusion of the CBI’s investigation against the primary suspects and marks the initiation of legal proceedings.
The Indian Army has expressed its approval of the legal developments, emphasizing the necessity for prompt, transparent, and exemplary action in such cases. The ongoing case is now being closely scrutinized as an important measure of accountability and adherence to the rule of law, especially concerning the potential misuse of police powers.
The submission of the chargesheet advances the case into a new phase, instilling hope in both the Bath family and the broader defense community that justice may be served through the legal process.
