A serving Indian Army Lieutenant Colonel has alleged that he was assaulted, confined inside a lawyer's chamber, and forced to sign a settlement agreement at the Panchkula district courts complex. The incident took place on July 9.
According to The Tribune, Lt Col Ashish Chandok, posted at Chandimandir Military Station in Panchkula, was allegedly assaulted by lawyers inside the court complex. He was also allegedly taken hostage inside a lawyer's chamber and forced to sign an agreement.
FIR registered against lawyers
An FIR was registered at Sector 7 Police Station, Panchkula, on Friday night. The charges include voluntarily causing hurt, causing grievous hurt, criminal intimidation, and rioting.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of military personnel while attending court proceedings. The alleged assault took place in a setting where the officer was present to attend hearings related to his personal legal matters.
Background of the case
Lt Col Chandok has been contesting three cases filed by his wife in the Panchkula district courts for the past one year. The couple has been living separately. The cases are being heard in the family court at the Panchkula district courts complex.
In his complaint to the police, Lt Col Chandok detailed the alleged assault and confinement. The incident has been widely reported on social media, with The Tribune's official X account sharing the news.
Our Take: A dangerous breach of safety
This incident is deeply troubling. A court complex is supposed to be a place of safety and justice. For a serving Army officer to be allegedly assaulted and held hostage there is unacceptable. It raises serious questions about the security arrangements at the Panchkula district courts and the conduct of those who are supposed to uphold the law.
In our view, this is not just an attack on one individual. It is an attack on the very idea that courts are safe spaces for dispute resolution. The authorities must investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Military personnel must be able to attend court proceedings without fear for their safety.
