The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday ordered the transfer of the investigation into Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath’s assault case to the Chandigarh Police. The decision came in response to Colonel Bath’s petition seeking an independent or CBI-led investigation.

Justice Harpreet Singh Brar, presiding over the case, stated that no officer from the Punjab Police cadre will be part of the new investigative team. The High Court has also directed Chandigarh Police to complete the probe within four months and submit a detailed report.

Background of the Case

Colonel Bath, who is currently posted at the Army Headquarters in Delhi, and his son Angad Singh Bath were allegedly attacked without provocation by 12 Punjab Police officers, including four inspectors. The incident took place near Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala during the night of March 13-14.

Following the assault, Colonel Bath suffered a dislocated arm, while his son was left with a fractured nose. The case has since gained national attention.

Family Rejects Offers, Demands CBI Probe

Despite official assurances, Colonel Bath’s family continues to demand a CBI probe. According to sources cited by The Indian Expressthe family was approached through Army channels and promised a transfer of Patiala SSP Nanak Singh and formation of an SIT (Special Investigation Team). In return, they were asked to withdraw the case from court. However, the family declined.

Official Assurances and Political Outreach

On Monday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met Colonel Bath’s wife, Jasvinder Kaur, assuring that justice will be delivered. Kaur shared that the CM expressed personal support during their meeting and mentioned further follow-up from his office.

In parallel, Colonel Bath and his family also met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday to discuss the developments and seek justice through formal defence channels.

Key Court Observations

At the outset of the hearing, the High Court asked the Punjab government to clarify whether it preferred a consensual transfer of the case or a merit-based judicial decision. Ultimately, the court decided in favor of an independent investigation free of Punjab Police involvement.

Read More: Chandigarh Police to Investigate Assault Case of Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath After High Court Order