Jalandhar, August 31
Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal has asked the Inspector General of Jalandhar Zone to conduct a thorough inquiry into the death of a college girl who ended her life yesterday after being ‘harassed and humiliated’ by the police and some photojournalists.

IG Gurpreet Deo has been asked to submit a comprehensive report within three days so that strict action could be taken against the guilty. Daughter of a city- based tailor, Rakesh Kumar, the girl, who was studying in the SD College here, committed suicide by jumping before a train after being allegedly harassed by ‘overzealous’ cops led by Inspector Balwinder Kaur.

As part of a drive against the eve-teasers, Kaur and her team had laid a naka near the SD College on Thursday. The police intercepted the girl and her male friend, Gaurav, who were in a car. Eyewitnesses said the ‘couple’ was harassed in full public view.

After receiving preliminary reports regarding the incident, Principal Secretary (Home), DS Bains has placed Balwinder Kaur under suspension with immediate effect.

The girl was cremated today. Her family members have demanded registration of a case under Section 306 (abetment to suicide) against Balwinder Kaur and mediapersons for forcing her to take the extreme step.

The girl’s neighbours and friends have decided to organise a candlelight processions on Sunday in her memory. The management of the SD College also declared a holiday today after a condolence meeting at the institute.

Gaurav, who is said to be from a well-to-do family, has gone underground since yesterday. It is being said the police was trying the hush up the case and Gaurav has been taken to an undisclosed location. ADCP Mahal, however, claimed that Gaurav is untraceable and the police was trying to locate him.

Taking cognisance of the shocking incident, the Punjab State Human Rights Commission has directed the Jalandhar Police Commissioner to conduct a probe into the matter. The commission, in its order, said, “A report under the Section 17 (i) of the Protection of Human Rights Act be called for from the state’s Home Department through the Commissioner of Police, Jalandhar.”