Punjab and Haryana High Court rejects dismissal of DSP Sandhu, removed from service over recording of Lawrence interview

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has overturned the dismissal of DSP Gursher Singh Sandhu, who was removed from service over the recording of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's interview while he was in police custody. The court ruled that the state government improperly bypassed a regular departmental inquiry and reinstated Sandhu with all benefits.

The court emphasized that the reinstatement should not impact the state's ongoing departmental inquiry. Sandhu had denied allegations of facilitating Lawrence's interview and was suspended and charged with misconduct. His counsel argued that a regular inquiry was necessary before dismissing an officer, while the state claimed the inquiry was impracticable.

However, the court found no evidence supporting this claim and noted that the inquiry against Sandhu could have been conducted alongside others facing similar charges. The court also rejected the state's argument regarding service of the chargesheet, stating there was no evidence that a genuine attempt was made to deliver it to Sandhu's known permanent address.