One too many leaders in VIP I-Day vehicle, cop suspended

Anirudh Gupta

Ferozepur, August 16

For a major breach of protocol during the Independence Day function at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium here yesterday, an Inspector of the Punjab Police, Ranjit Singh, has been placed under suspension while two Deputy Superintendent Police-rank officers have been issued show-cause notices.

The alleged violation of protocol took place when the Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, who was the chief guest on the occasion, got on board a police gypsy to inspect the ceremonial guard of honour.

Several Congress leaders, including Ferozepur (rural) MLA Satkar Kaur, DCC president Chamkaur Singh Dhindsa, former minister Inderjit Singh Zira and Harinder Singh Khosa, also hopped on the vehicle along with Sidhu. The parade commander had a tough time finding a space for himself.

Deputy Commissioner Ramvir said the erring Inspector was suspended for dereliction of duty.

Later, when Sidhu arrived at the podium, several Congress leaders were seen jostling with each other to get themselves photographed with the minister as police officials tried hard to keep them at bay.

Many of them were trying to take selfie with Sidhu. Even chairs meant for officers were grabbed by the leaders trying to show proximity to the visiting dignitary.