Overview

• On August 1 in Batala, two Punjab Police sub-inspectors from the 5th Commando Battalion allegedly dragged and punched freelance journalist Balwinder Singh after he questioned them outside a hotel.
• The recording circulated on social media, prompting public scrutiny and demands for officer accountability.
• Singh filed a complaint on August 2, leading to an FIR under sections 115(2), 118(1) and 3(5) of the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
• Sub-Inspectors Surjit Kumar and Mandeep Singh were suspended on August 8 pending an investigation by Batala police authorities.
• The case has intensified debate over police use of force and protections for journalists under India’s updated criminal code.