‘Bribe to suppress rape case’ allegation: Mann’s wife sends notice to ex-judge

Former Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann's wife, Gurpreet Kaur, has sent a legal notice to ex-judge Ranjit Singh over his allegations that she tried to suppress a rape case for a bribe of Rs 5 crore, according to the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Ranjit Singh, who is the brother-in-law of Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira, has been given 24 hours to respond to the notice, or face legal proceedings and a court appearance.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken note of the matter and directed the Punjab chief secretary and director general of police to investigate the allegations. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo stated the concern raised by the allegation against a top state official concerning the safety of women and children. The NHRC has also warned officials against succumbing to political pressure and will decide on further action based on the state administration's report within 15 days.