PM security breach: SP Gurbinder Singh suspended for dereliction of duty
The Punjab Home Department has taken swift action against Superintendent of Police (SP) Gurbinder Singh, suspending him for alleged dereliction of duty in connection with a security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the state in January of the previous year. The suspension, effective immediately, was outlined in an order issued by the Punjab Home Department on Wednesday.
During the incident, Gurbinder Singh served as the Superintendent of Police (Operations) and was on duty in Ferozepur. The security breach unfolded on January 5, 2022, when protesters blocked a flyover in Ferozepur, leading to the stranding of Prime Minister Modi’s convoy. Consequently, Modi had to abandon his scheduled events, including a rally, and return from Punjab. This breach of security, occurring just ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections, sparked a notable political controversy.
The decision to suspend Gurbinder Singh underscores the seriousness with which authorities are addressing lapses in security during high-profile visits. Such swift administrative measures emphasize the importance of accountability and adherence to duty, particularly in situations involving the safety of dignitaries.
As the situation develops, further investigations or actions may be taken to ascertain the details of the security breach and to address any systemic issues that may have contributed to the lapse. The suspension serves as an immediate response to the identified shortcomings and highlights the commitment to maintaining a robust and effective security apparatus during significant events.
The decision to suspend Gurbinder Singh reflects the authorities’ response to the perceived failure in ensuring the security and smooth passage of the Prime Minister during his visit. The suspension also underscores the importance of holding officials accountable for their responsibilities, especially in matters of high-profile events involving the security of dignitaries.
The aftermath of the security breach has likely prompted a review of the circumstances leading to the incident, and the suspension serves as an administrative measure to address any lapses in duty. As the situation unfolds, further investigations or actions may be taken to ascertain the details of the security breach and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The suspension order for Superintendent of Police (SP) Gurbinder Singh is based on a report dated October 18, 2023, submitted by the Punjab Director General of Police (DGP). According to the DGP’s report, Singh was found to have not performed his duty properly in connection with the security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Punjab in January of the previous year.
The order, issued in Punjabi, states that after considering the matter at the level of the competent authority, Gurbinder Singh is suspended with immediate effect. The decision to suspend Singh is a consequence of the reported lapses in duty as identified by the DGP’s report.
It’s worth noting that a Supreme Court-appointed committee had earlier probed the security breach and indicted several state officers for lapses. The Supreme Court, on January 12 of the previous year, had appointed the committee to investigate the breach, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial inquiry conducted by “judicially trained independent minds.” The suspension of Gurbinder Singh follows the findings of this committee and underscores the accountability of officials in matters of security lapses during high-profile visits.
As the situation develops, it will be important to observe any further actions or investigations that may be undertaken to address the issues identified in the security breach and ensure the appropriate measures are taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
