The Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh has granted anticipatory bail to Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Dilbag Singh, who was accused of threatening a senior court officer inside the High Court premises earlier this month. The order was delivered by Justice N.S. Shekhawat on 22 August 2025.
Background of the Incident
The case stemmed from a complaint by Dalvinder Singh, Chief Court Officer, alleging that ASI Dilbag Singh, posted as a Personal Security Officer (PSO), lost his temper during an inquiry on 6 August 2025. According to the complaint, Dilbag Singh allegedly pulled out his service pistol, pointed it at the complainant, and attempted to fire. Fortunately, no bullet was discharged, and other staff members present overpowered him. CCTV footage of the incident was also reported to be available within the court premises.
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Arguments Before the Court
The defence argued that the allegations had been exaggerated and no shot was actually fired. Counsel for the petitioner highlighted that the service pistol along with all ten live rounds had been recovered intact by the police, making the charge under Section 109(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) questionable. The petitioner further maintained that the episode was merely a heated verbal exchange, during which he himself had suffered minor injuries.
On the other hand, the prosecution strongly opposed bail, pointing out that the petitioner's act of brandishing his weapon inside the High Court posed a serious threat.
"Had the branch officials not intervened, the complainant could have faced grave consequences," the State counsel argued.
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During the hearing, ASI Dilbag Singh personally apologised to the complainant, admitting that the confrontation happened "in the heat of the moment." He also submitted an affidavit assuring that he would not cause any harm to the complainant or his family in future.
Justice Shekhawat observed that the allegations were serious, especially since the petitioner was a member of a disciplined force deployed on security duty inside the court.
"He should have acted in a more responsible and careful manner," the judge remarked.
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However, considering the unconditional apology and undertaking, the court decided to extend relief.
The High Court allowed the petition and granted anticipatory bail, subject to conditions under Section 482(2) of the BNSS. The investigating officer has been given the liberty to call the petitioner for questioning if required, through a written notice.
Case Title: ASI Dilbag Singh vs. State of Union Territory, Chandigarh
Case Number: CRM-M-46352-2025 (O&M)
