The facts came to light in the magisterial inquiry conducted by JMIC Balwinder Singh, who had mentioned the need of a “thorough probe” in the case “using scientific tools”. The Magistrate’s report, which is silent about the killer, was sufficient enough for Chandigarh Police to register a case on charges of murder. However, the FIR too does not mention the name of the accused and depicts it as a case of blind-murder.

Nirmal Singh, after a brawl with his neighbour Shinder Kaur over a petty issue, was allegedly taken to GMCH 32 by the Police Control Room personnel.

Acting on the “suspected” role of the police personnel posted at Sector 31 police station, senior officials had placed three personnel, including prime suspect ASI Mukh Ram under suspension.

In an official press-release, Chandigarh Police mentioned that they had recorded the statements of Raghbir Singh and Sher Singh (both brothers of the deceased Nirmal Singh), who alleged that Nirmal was taken from his house by police personnel and that he died in police custody.