CHANDIGARH: The cause of Shubhkaran Singh’s death being shotgun fire, prompts the High Court to call for a more detailed investigation of the case.
The death of farmer Shubhkaran Singh at the Khanauri border during the farmers’ protest has raised significant questions following the release of a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report. The report, submitted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, revealed that Singh was fatally wounded by a shotgun—a weapon not possessed by the police or security forces stationed at the border, adding a layer of mystery to the tragic incident.
After a hue and cry and criticism over social media on Monday against the Mann government for not adhering to its promise of providing Rs 1 crore to Shubhkaran’s family and a job, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took a significant step on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
Mann personally went to Shubhkaran’s home and handed over a cheque of Rs 1 crore as financial assistance to the family of 21-year-old Shubhkaran Singh. In addition to the financial support, Mann provided an appointment letter for a government job to the deceased’s sister, offering some solace and support to the grieving family. Shubhkaran, a native of Bathinda, was killed in the clashes at the Khanauri border point on the Punjab-Haryana border on February 21 during the farmers’ protest. The same incident saw twelve police personnel injured, highlighting the intense and violent nature of the confrontation.
The FSL report has prompted the High Court to order a further, more detailed investigation to determine who fired the fatal shot. The court has suggested reviewing video footage from the day of the incident to identify the individual responsible for the shooting, emphasising the need for a thorough and transparent inquiry.
Reacting to the FSL findings, prominent farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal expressed disbelief and indignation. He questioned the rationale behind farmers possessing firearms to harm their own, implying that such an action is contrary to the principles and nature of their peaceful protests. Dallewal criticised the investigation conducted by the Haryana Police, arguing that it lacked impartiality and thoroughness. He called for an independent inquiry led by a retired judge of the High Court to ensure that justice is served and the actual circumstances of Shubhkaran Singh’s death are brought to light.
The incident on February 21 at the Khanauri border was a pivotal moment in the farmers’ movement. Shubhkaran and his fellow farmers were attempting to march towards Delhi to press for their demands. Despite being stopped and confronted with tear gas and gunfire by Haryana government authorities, the farmers persisted in their efforts. The situation escalated, resulting in Shubhkaran being fatally struck in the head just steps away from the Haryana border.
This tragic death has not only caused immense grief to Singh’s family but has also intensified calls for accountability and transparency in the investigation. Stakeholders, including farmer unions and human rights organisations, are demanding a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Shubhkaran’s untimely demise. They seek to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that such incidents do not recur in the future.