Shocking video: Punjab cops brutally thrash Army Colonel, son over parking dispute in Patiala; 12 officers suspended

What happened?

The incident occurred on March 13 outside a roadside eatery near Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala and was caught on CCTV.

The video of the incident has since gone viral on social media platforms.

The altercation reportedly began when police personnel, dressed in civilian clothes, asked Colonel Bath to move his vehicle, leading to a heated exchange between them.

The situation quickly escalated, resulting in the policemen allegedly kicking and punching Colonel Bath and using baseball bats to thrash him and his son.

Both victims sustained injuries in the attack and are currently undergoing treatment.

Why were the police there?

According to The Tribune, the police involved were on their way to the hospital after an encounter with kidnappers during which a 7-year-old child was rescued and an accused was shot dead. 

One policeman accused of assault claimed it was the colonel and his son who initiated the violence. “They were inebriated and attacked us”, he said.

What does the family say?  

Col Pushpinder Bath’s wife, Jaswinder Bath, recounted the events at a press conference in Patiala. She claimed that while the family was standing outside the car and eating their food, the police asked her husband to move his car to make space for theirs. 

“When my husband objected to their language, one of them punched him. Later, all the police personnel thrashed my husband and my son, leaving them injured,” said Jaswinder. 

What is the police response?

The police have registered an FIR on the statement of a dhaba owner, and a probe is underway.

Dr Nanak Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP)-Patiala, said 12 police personnel have been suspended in the case of assault with an Army officer and his son.

Orders for a departmental inquiry have also been issued against all the police personnel, which will be completed in 45 days, the SSP added.

He also apologised on behalf of the Punjab Police.

“We will probe the matter in detail, and justice will be done. We will not spare anyone,” said Nanak Singh.