Legal notice sent to ex-judge over allegations against Mann's wife
What's the story
Gurpreet Kaur, the wife of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has sent a legal notice to retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Ranjit Singh. The notice comes after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) directed state officials to investigate allegations that Kaur sought ₹5 crore to suppress a rape case. The NHRC took cognizance of these allegations on August 21 and issued notices under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act.
Legal proceedings
Kaur demands apology from Singh
The NHRC has directed the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to submit an action taken report within two weeks.
However, it did not issue a personal notice to Kaur.
In response, she has sent a legal notice to Justice Singh asking for an apology within 24 hours or further legal action will be initiated.
Public response
Political reactions over allegations
Singh has denied making any complaint to the NHRC or receiving a notice from Kaur. He told The Indian Express, "I have not complained to anyone about anyone."
The allegations have sparked political reactions with Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring calling for clarification from Chief Minister Mann on this issue.
Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former Punjab Minister Bikram Singh Majithia also demanded Mann's resignation over these allegations.
Official visit
AAP MLA defends party stand
Reacting to the allegations, Aam Aadmi Party's Moga MLA and the party's women wing president, Dr. Amandeep Kaur, said attacking an individual's private life would not be tolerated.
She said, "When lies cross all limits, they will be answered not only politically but also through legal means."
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mann met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in a closed-door meeting on Saturday. The purpose of the meeting remains unclear as officials did not disclose details.