The Supreme Court of India has issued an interim order directing Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia to appear before the Punjab Police for interrogation in connection with a drugs case. The Court has instructed Majithia to present himself at the Special Investigation Team (SIT) headquarters in Patiala on March 17 at 11 AM.
The order was passed by a bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Aravind Kumar while hearing an appeal filed by the Punjab Police challenging the High Court's decision to grant regular bail to Majithia.
Emphasizing the need for cooperation, the Supreme Court stated:
"The authorities may interrogate on these issues and complete the investigation. He will continue to appear on the date as and when required."
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The Punjab government, represented by Advocate General Gurminder Singh, argued for the cancellation of Majithia’s bail, citing non-cooperation. Singh informed the Court that Majithia had refused to answer specific questions posed to him through a written questionnaire.
Punjab Government's Concern Over Non-Cooperation
Singh expressed concerns over Majithia's refusal to respond to investigative queries, stating:
"Our apprehension is only one. I am not on cancellation. But cooperation and investigation is a sine qua non for us. Appear, cooperate, and answer."
However, Justice Aravind Kumar remarked that the Court cannot mandate Majithia to respond in the manner the Punjab Government desires.
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Clarifying his stance, Singh highlighted:
"He says, 'I will not reply.' This is his response. He believes he has the right not to answer. My problem is when I call him, he claims he has bail and refuses to provide any answers. This is what he has submitted in the affidavit."
Senior Advocate R. Basant, appearing on behalf of Majithia, argued that his client was being harassed for political reasons. He suggested that the Court specify a set number of days for his client's appearance to avoid misuse of the directive.
"Your Lordship may direct, I will appear for two days. Kindly don't leave it to them because it's being used for political purposes, and I am unnecessarily being harassed. If Your Lordship wants two days, I will appear. Please don't leave it to them."
Next Hearing Scheduled
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for March 24, where further developments in the case will be reviewed.
Case Details: THE STATE OF PUNJAB Vs BIKRAM SINGH MAJITHIA | SLP (Crl) No. 3650/2023
