“This Court cannot shut its eyes to immediate societal concerns. The ecosystem of gangsters mushrooming in the State of Punjab must be dealt with an iron hand and these elements do not deserve any lenient treatment from the Court as only then, can the citizens live a fulfilling life and contribute to the growth of the nation.”
The Punjab and Haryana High Court made the above observation while dismissing the bail application of the alleged gang member who was booked under Sections 387, 389, 506, 509 and 120-B of IPC.
Vikas Bali ,counsel for the petitioner contended that petitioner has been falsely implicated in the case on the basis of disclosure statement of co-accused , whose statement was recorded on 06.04.2023 and even in his statement, evidence with regard to complicity of the petitioner is very sketchy and it does not spell out anything with regard to the fact that the petitioner has taken active participation in demanding the ransom amount. The counsel for the petitioner further submits that the petitioner is of tender age and he has clean antecedents and there is nothing available on record to indicate his connection with this notorious gang.
Per contra, State counsel submits that ransom money along with 3.15 bore pistol and one live cartridge, were recovered from the petitioner and his co-accused.The State counsel further submits that the petitioner is a member of notorious gang of co-accused Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and the complainant is yet to be examined during the course of trial and in case the petitioner is released on bail, he is likely to intimidate and influence the witnesses, specially the complainant.
A Single Bench of Justice Harpreet Singh Brar said that it is the primary duty of the State to ensure security of all its citizens and create an atmosphere free of violence and instability, so they do not live in a constant state of fear and harm. The infestation of gang culture in Punjab is actively promoting disharmony by inflicting violence and enabling drug abuse. It is imperative that law enforcement is strengthened and this disruptive culture eroding the social fabric is dealt with sternly.