Court Modifies Prior Directives to Address Resource Constraints in Law Enforcement Agencies
In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court, presided over by Justice Harpreet Singh Brar, has modified its previous directives concerning the investigation of organized crime cases in the states of Haryana and Punjab. The decision, rendered on January 19, 2026, comes in response to applications filed under Section 528 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, coupled with Articles 226/227 of the Indian Constitution.
The court's earlier mandate, issued on May 21, 2025, required that investigations into organized crime be exclusively conducted by officers of the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) rank. However, the new judgment allows for such investigations to be carried out by officers of the rank of Inspector or higher, with the monitoring to be conducted by an officer of the rank of DSP or above. This change acknowledges the limited availability of DSP officers, as highlighted by the state representatives.
The court also addressed the establishment of district-wise Special Task Force (STF) and Anti Gangster Task Force (AGTF) units. Previously, the court had directed the creation of such units, each to be managed by senior officers. The revised directive provides discretion to the states to form these units based on available resources, personnel, and the prevalence of organized crime.
Mr. Sandeep Chhabra, Additional Advocate General for Haryana, and Mr. Vikas Arora, Deputy Advocate General for Punjab, presented the states' positions, emphasizing the logistical challenges of the previous directives. They argued that the current infrastructure, including STF units and cyber cells, is sufficient to manage organized crime, and that the prevalence of such crime does not warrant district-wide units in all areas.
The decision underscores the court's recognition of practical limitations faced by law enforcement agencies, balancing the need for effective crime investigation with the constraints of personnel and resources.
Bottom Line:
Modification of earlier directions regarding investigation of organized crime cases and establishment of district-wise STF and AGTF units in Haryana and Punjab.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 528
Ranveer v. State of Haryana, (Punjab And Haryana) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2843466
