A Delhi court on Tuesday ordered an eight-day police custody for the man who drove an SUV into the Delhi Assembly complex, breaching security and raising concerns about the capital’s safety protocols.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the accused, identified as Sarabjit Singh, a resident of Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh, was produced before Judicial Magistrate Kartik Taparia. The Delhi Police sought ten days of custody, arguing that an in-depth investigation was necessary to uncover any potential conspiracy and to probe a possible “terror angle.” Police also highlighted that Singh’s mobile phone, which he allegedly discarded, was yet to be recovered.
The defense counsel opposed the plea for extended custody, claiming Singh is mentally unstable and has been undergoing medical treatment. They stated that Singh had left his home abruptly two weeks prior to visit his sister in Chandigarh without informing his family, and his movements during this period were unknown. The counsel further submitted that Singh had returned to Delhi upon learning of his nephew’s disappearance, and had mistakenly entered the Delhi Assembly, believing it to be a gurdwara.
However, the judge questioned the defense’s claims, asking how Singh was allowed to drive if his mental health issues impaired him and why these issues were only being brought up after the commission of the offense. The prosecutor also pointed out that the charge of attempt to murder had been invoked, as Singh allegedly tried to run over security personnel on duty.
Background of the Incident
The security breach occurred on Monday afternoon when a masked man, later identified as Sarabjit Singh, drove a white Tata Sierra SUV through Gate No. 2 of the Delhi Assembly complex. The vehicle smashed through a boom barrier and proceeded to the porch area, where the driver alighted and placed a bouquet of red flowers before fleeing the scene. The incident, which lasted approximately five to seven minutes, raised serious concerns about security lapses at the legislative body.
The Assembly was not in session at the time, though Speaker Vijender Gupta was present in his office. Police tracked the SUV, which had an Uttar Pradesh registration number, and apprehended Singh and two other individuals in the Roop Nagar area approximately two hours after the breach. Forensic teams examined the bouquet, and bomb disposal and dog squads conducted searches, ruling out any explosive threat.
Investigation and Charges
Sarabjit Singh has been booked under various sections of the law, including attempt to murder, criminal trespass with preparation to commit an offense, and using criminal force against a public servant. Police are investigating all angles, including Singh’s alleged links to the 2020-21 farmers’ agitation, as he had reportedly posted on social media platforms about the protests. Sources also indicated that Singh’s actions may be related to the disappearance of his nephew, Harman Singh, who has been missing since April 1. Singh reportedly believed that a senior official at the Assembly might assist him in resolving the case of his missing nephew.
Investigators are scrutinizing Singh’s social media accounts and assessing his mental health. The police have also retrieved his Call Detail Records. Despite the claims of mental instability, the court noted inconsistencies in the documentation presented by the defense. The investigation continues to explore the motive behind the breach and to ascertain if there was any conspiracy involved.
The Chenab Times News Desk