Lawrence Bishnoi Interview Case: Punjab DSP Dismissed Over Gangster Scandal

The Punjab Government has dismissed Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Gursher Singh Sandhu for facilitating a video interview of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi while the latter was in custody at the Central Investigation Agency (CIA), Kharar. The decision, approved by the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC), was taken to safeguard the integrity and reputation of the police department.

Punjab Government has dismissed Deputy Superintendent of Police Gursher Singh Sandhu for "denting the image of the police department" by facilitating a video interview of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi during his custody at the Central Investigation Agency (CIA), Kharar.

The… pic.twitter.com/2FZ81j4Kr7

— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2025

Dismissal Following High Court-Ordered SIT Investigation

The dismissal order followed a detailed investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in response to a Public Interest Litigation (CWP-PIL-93-2023). The SIT found that DSP Sandhu, while under suspension since October 25, 2024, facilitated the interview, which was subsequently aired on a television channel.

Chargesheet Evaded by Punjab Police 

Despite multiple attempts to serve a chargesheet, Sandhu evaded formal communication. The document was eventually affixed to his residence, fulfilling procedural obligations. The Department of Home Affairs noted that Sandhu’s actions contravened Article 311 of the Indian Constitution, which outlines the dismissal procedures for civil servants.

Significant Breach of Protocol

The government deemed Sandhu’s facilitation of the interview a severe breach of protocol, adversely impacting the credibility of the Punjab Police. The action aligns with the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring accountability within its ranks.

Home Department officials emphasized that the decision to dismiss Sandhu reflects the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct in public service. The incident underscores the importance of preserving institutional integrity and ensuring that officers uphold their duties without compromising public trust.

This dismissal serves as a stern reminder of the accountability required from officials entrusted with public security responsibilities.