Mohali, April 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
In a significant development, a Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court in Mohali has pronounced sentences for four former Punjab police officers involved in the infamous 2007 Moga sex scandal.
The convicted individuals include the then Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Davinder Singh Garcha, the then Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) Paramdip Singh Sandhu, the then Station House Officer (SHO) of Moga City Police Station Raman Kumar, and Inspector Amarjit Singh. Each has been sentenced to five years of imprisonment and fined ₹2 lakh. Additionally, Raman Kumar received an extra three-year sentence under Section 384 (extortion) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Background of the 2007 Moga Sex Scandal
The scandal emerged in 2007, revealing a network where senior Punjab Police officials and influential individuals allegedly exploited women to falsely implicate businessmen and politicians in rape cases for extortion purposes. This led to significant public outcry and demands for a thorough investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Convictions
Following the exposure of the scandal, the Punjab and Haryana High Court transferred the investigation to the CBI in December 2007, citing concerns over potential political and administrative pressures on the state police. The CBI’s investigation concluded that the accused officers abused their positions by registering false cases and implicating innocent individuals to extract bribes. On March 30, 2025, the Special CBI Court convicted the four officers under Sections 13(1)(d) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Raman Kumar was also found guilty under Section 384 of the IPC, while Amarjit Singh was convicted under Sections 384 and 511 (attempt to extort).
Acquittals in the Case
The court acquitted Barjinder Singh alias Makhan, son of former Punjab minister Tota Singh, and Sukhraj Singh of all charges due to insufficient evidence.
Implications of the Verdict
This verdict underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing corruption and misconduct within law enforcement agencies. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the rule of law in maintaining public trust.
FAQs
What was the 2007 Moga sex scandal about?
The scandal involved senior police officials allegedly conspiring to falsely implicate individuals in rape cases to extort money. They reportedly used women to trap businessmen and politicians, leading to public outrage and legal action.
Who were the main individuals convicted in this case?
The convicted individuals are:
Davinder Singh Garcha, the then SSP of Moga
Paramdip Singh Sandhu, the then SP (Headquarters) of Moga
Raman Kumar, the then SHO of Moga City Police Station
Amarjit Singh, Inspector and then in charge of Moga City Police Station
What sentences were handed down to the convicted officers?
Each officer received a five-year prison sentence and a ₹2 lakh fine. Additionally, Raman Kumar was sentenced to an extra three years for extortion under Section 384 of the IPC.
Why were some individuals acquitted in this case?
Barjinder Singh alias Makhan and Sukhraj Singh were acquitted due to a lack of sufficient evidence against them.
What role did the CBI play in this investigation?
The CBI took over the investigation following directives from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which expressed concerns about the state police’s ability to conduct an impartial probe due to potential political and administrative pressures.
What are the broader implications of this verdict?
The verdict highlights the necessity for accountability within law enforcement agencies and serves as a deterrent against the misuse of power, reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct in public service.
