Former Punjab minister faces setback as court denies separate cell request; will approach Supreme Court
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has dealt a significant blow to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Punjab minister Bikram Singh Majithia by rejecting his bail plea in a disproportionate assets case. The rejection forces Majithia to remain incarcerated in Nabha jail while he prepares to approach the Supreme Court for relief.
Current Situation at Nabha Jail
Following the court’s decision, Majithia is now housed in the same barrack as other undertrials and hardened criminals. His plea for a separate cell was also rejected by the court, though he has been granted some relief in other areas. The court has directed the Punjab government and jail authorities to ensure adequate security for Majithia in accordance with High Court directives and prison regulations.
As a concession, Majithia has been permitted to meet with family members and lawyers twice weekly in a separate room. His legal team, led by advocate Arshdeep Singh Kaler, stated that these face-to-face meetings can include up to 10 approved individuals, comprising family members and members of the legal team.
Security Concerns Raised
Kaler expressed concerns about his client’s safety, citing potential threats from criminal gangs and anti-national agencies operating within the prison system. Taking note of these apprehensions, the court instructed the state government to enhance security measures within the prison premises.
Investigation Details
The case against Majithia centres on allegations of acquiring disproportionate assets. The investigation has revealed a complex web of financial transactions allegedly involving the former minister and his close associates.
Four days prior to this court order, Harpreet Singh Gulati, a close associate of Majithia, was arrested by the Vigilance Department. The investigation alleges that money transactions occurred between Gulati and Majithia through three liquor companies: Akash Spirit, UV Enterprises, and AD Enterprises. Investigators claim that Majithia acquired properties in Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) and Delhi through Gulati as an intermediary.
The arrest of Gulati has strengthened the Vigilance Department’s case against Majithia and is expected to play a crucial role in the ongoing investigation.
Next Steps
With the High Court’s rejection of his bail plea, Majithia’s legal team is now preparing to move the Supreme Court for bail relief. The case is expected to draw significant attention given Majithia’s position as a prominent political figure in Punjab’s Shiromani Akali Dal.
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