Legal Setback for Punjab Govt? High Court Issues Notice in Amritpal Singh Case:

In a significant legal development, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a formal notice to the Punjab government regarding a fresh plea involving Amritpal Singh, the Khadoor Sahib MP and head of 'Waris Punjab De'.

The case adds a new layer to the ongoing legal battle surrounding Singh, who is currently detained in Assam’s Dibrugarh Jail under the National Security Act (NSA).

The Core of the Petition

The notice follows a petition challenging the government's procedures or specific restrictions related to Singh’s detention. While he was elected as a Member of Parliament while in custody, his legal team and family have frequently moved the court regarding:

Extension of NSA: Challenging the repeated extensions of the National Security Act against him.

Parole for Parliamentary Duties: Requests to allow him to attend parliamentary sessions or visit his constituency to fulfill his duties as an elected representative.

Basic Rights in Custody: Concerns regarding the conditions of his detention in Dibrugarh.

The High Court’s Direction

The High Court has sought a detailed response from the Punjab government, asking for the legal basis and documentation regarding the current status of the case. The court’s intervention is seen as a crucial step in determining whether the state’s actions align with constitutional mandates, especially given Singh's current status as a sitting MP.

The Political Context

Since Amritpal Singh’s victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, there has been a persistent political and legal tug-of-war. His supporters argue that his detention prevents the people of Khadoor Sahib from having their voice in Parliament, while the state and central governments maintain that his release or transfer poses a significant threat to national security and the peace of Punjab.

What Happens Next?

The Punjab government is expected to file its reply in the coming weeks. The court will then decide whether there are grounds to grant relief, such as a temporary transfer to a jail in Punjab or specific permissions for him to perform his legislative duties.