Punjab police AIG arrested for killing son-in-law in Chandigarh court

New Delhi: In a shocking turn of events, Harprit Singh, an Indian Civil Account Services (ICAS) officer, was fatally shot by his father-in-law, Malwinder Singh, a suspended assistant inspector general (AIG) of Punjab Police, on Saturday afternoon. The incident occurred at the mediation centre within the district court complex in Sector 43, Chandigarh.

According to police reports, Malwinder Singh was immediately detained and arrested after the shooting. He allegedly fired three shots from close range at Harprit, with one bullet striking Harprit in the chest and causing his death on the spot. The weapon used in the crime was also recovered at the scene.

Background of dispute

The shooting took place during the fourth mediation hearing of a marital dispute between Harprit Singh and Malwinder Singh’s daughter, Dr. Amitoj Kaur. Both families had gathered at the court for the session. Malwinder Singh reportedly asked Harprit to show him the way to the washroom, and moments later, he allegedly drew a pistol and shot Harprit.

Despite efforts by Harprit's parents and advocates to rush him to the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), he was declared dead upon arrival.

Why did he shoot his son-in-law? 

The marital dispute between Harprit Singh and Dr. Amitoj Kaur has been ongoing since 2023, with both parties having previous litigation in the Mohali district. The case was being mediated by a court-appointed mediator. Dr. Amitoj Kaur, who is currently in Canada, was represented by her father Malwinder Singh.

Malwinder Singh had faced legal troubles in the past. In November of the previous year, he was booked by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau for fraud and extortion while serving as AIG in the Punjab Police’s human rights cell. He was subsequently suspended and has since retired from the force.