CHANDIGARH: Six human rights organizations of Punjab have sought a CBI enquiry into the death of Ashish Lakhanpal, the son of a prominent lawyer and human rights activist, Ranjan Lakhanpal.
Six organizations including the Punjab Human Rights Organization, Movement Against State Repression, People’s Union for Civil Liberties, Akali Dal Human Rights Wing, Lawyers Initiative and Sikh Human Rights Group have said that the manner in which Ashish has been killed, raises serious doubts.”
The human rights groups have alleged that “a blatant attempt has been made to scuttle the whole judicial system.” An atmosphere has been created in Punjab where an advocate cannot perform his duties without fear or favor,” the statement adds.
The 10-year-old Ashish was fatally hit by a Maruticaron March 29, while cycling on the road. The police have treated it as an accident and the driver of the car was arrested for crash and negligent driving.
However, Ranjan Lakhanpal in a memorandum submitted to the Governor has sought a judicial enquiry into the matter.
Article extracted from this publication >> April 21, 1995
