The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has issued a formal notice to the Punjab government concerning the death of Gulzar Singh, a resident of Sangrur district. The commission is investigating allegations that Singh died after consuming poison out of fear, and he had also reportedly raised concerns about drug-related issues in the area prior to his death.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that Gulzar Singh, in a video widely circulated on social media shortly before his demise, claimed to have ingested poison due to fear of a minister. He also made allegations against members of his village panchayat. The NCSC, acting under the powers vested in it by Article 338 of the Constitution, has initiated an inquiry into the matter.
Notices have been dispatched to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police of Punjab, directing them to submit detailed facts of the case along with a report on the actions taken concerning the allegations within a period of five days. The commission’s intervention followed a complaint lodged by Sheetal Angural, who is the former Member of the Legislative Assembly and the state president of the BJP SC Morcha in Punjab.
Shri Kishor Makwana, the Chairman of the NCSC, characterized the case as exceptionally serious and sensitive. He emphasized that the allegations, which involved a minister and village panchayat members, and were made in a video recorded prior to the individual’s death, necessitate a high-level inquiry. Mr. Makwana stated that the Punjab government has been requested to provide a comprehensive report on the matter.
Furthermore, Chairman Makwana announced his intention to visit Sangrur on September 10 to personally examine the circumstances surrounding Gulzar Singh’s death. The NCSC’s action underscores the gravity of the allegations and the commission’s commitment to ensuring thorough investigation into matters concerning the Scheduled Castes community.
The NCSC, as a constitutional body, is mandated to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for Scheduled Castes under the Constitution or under any other law for the time being in force or under any order of the Government. It is also tasked with inquiring into specific complaints with respect to the deprivation of rights and safeguards of Scheduled Castes.
The preliminary complaint reportedly detailed that Gulzar Singh had been vocal about the drug menace in his locality, which allegedly led to his targeting by influential figures. His purported act of consuming poison and levelling accusations against a minister and local representatives has prompted the state’s top administrative and police officials to respond urgently to the NCSC’s directive. The Punjab government is expected to provide a swift and detailed account of the events and any prior actions or inquiries related to the allegations made by Gulzar Singh.
The NCSC’s involvement signifies a critical step in ensuring accountability and justice in cases where individuals from marginalized communities raise serious concerns against individuals in positions of power. The commission’s investigation will aim to ascertain the veracity of the claims made by the deceased and identify any lapses in governance or protection that may have contributed to the alleged circumstances leading to his death.
Chairman Makwana’s planned visit to Sangrur is anticipated to involve interactions with local authorities, community members, and potentially review evidence related to the case. This direct engagement is intended to provide the commission with a clearer understanding of the ground realities and the social dynamics that may have played a role in the events. The outcome of the NCSC’s inquiry is expected to inform further action by the state government and potentially the central government, depending on the findings.
The Supreme Court panel’s notice to the Punjab government highlights the critical role of constitutional bodies in addressing grievances and ensuring that allegations of misconduct or injustice are thoroughly investigated. The five-day deadline for submitting reports underscores the urgency with which the commission views this sensitive matter.
The Chenab Times News Desk