Judicial probe ordered into killing of ASI at farmers` protest in Punjab

Chandigarh: Punjab government on Friday ordered a judicial probe into the death of an Assistant Sub Inspector who died after being kidnapped by protesting farmers in Jeobala village of Tarn Taran district, three months ago.

An official spokesman said here that CR Goel, a retired District and Session Judge of Haryana would conduct the judicial inquiry and submit its report to the Chief Minister within three months. The decision to order a judicial probe was taken after a meeting between various farmers` organisations and labourers with Chief Secretary Rakesh Singh here on April 26. Punjab Police ASI Kulbir Singh, who was part of a police team conducting raid at a hideout of farmers` union members in Jeowala village, was killed at the wee hours of March 7, police said adding, when the team including the ASI reached the spot, they were held hostage by agitating farmers. The farmers, however, had alleged that the ASI was drunk and panicked after seeing a huge gathering. They also claimed that the ASI ran away from the spot and later suffered a heart attack. PTI