The Punjab government officially rejected the request of jailed MP Amritpal Singh for temporary release to attend the Budget session of Parliament on February 2. Citing a "serious threat to the security of the state and the maintenance of public order," the government deemed it necessary to deny Singh's application. Singh, who represents Khadoor Sahib, had sought permission to attend the session, which commenced on January 28.
The decision followed a directive from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had instructed the government to respond to Singh's representation within seven working days. Singh's counsel, Imaan Singh Khara, received the state's response on the same day his request was denied.
- Security concerns cited — Government officials noted that allowing Singh's release could jeopardize public order.
- High Court directive — The court had previously ordered a timely decision on Singh's request, which the government complied with in its denial.
- Ongoing detention under NSA — Singh remains detained under the National Security Act since April 2023.
The additional chief secretary (home) referred to the assessments from local police officials, who opposed Singh's temporary release due to potential risks. The order emphasized that members of Parliament in detention do not possess a constitutional right to attend sessions, as reiterated by a Supreme Court ruling.
Amritpal Singh, the chief of the Waris Punjab De group, has been in detention following a crackdown by Punjab Police after a violent incident in February 2023. His arrest and ongoing detention have raised significant concerns about political freedoms and civil liberties within the state. Singh had previously sought permission to attend the Winter session of Parliament, but his request was denied due to unresolved legal arguments at that time.
