Chandigarh-The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) is deeply concerned about the controversy surrounding the allegation of a ₹5-crore demand connected with a rape case and involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s wife, Dr Gurpreet Kaur.NAPA makes it clear that an allegation must not be treated as a conviction. Dr Gurpreet Kaur has strongly denied the allegation and has initiated legal action against the person associated with the accusation. Her legal rights, dignity and reputation must be fully respected.
At the same time, the matter has reached the National Human Rights Commission, which has directed the Punjab authorities to inquire into the allegations. Therefore, the issue cannot simply be dismissed as political rhetoric without examining the facts.NAPA calls for a transparent, impartial and credible inquiry capable of establishing the truth without political pressure or interference.
If the allegations are false, the investigation should conclusively establish that fact and protect the reputation of those wrongly accused.If credible evidence supports the allegations, the law must take its course regardless of the political position, influence or family connections of anyone involved. The issue is particularly serious because it concerns an allegation of possible interference in a rape case. No victim should ever be pressured into silence, compromise or withdrawal because of money, political influence or social status.
Punjab needs a justice system in which an ordinary citizen and a politically connected person are treated according to the same law.NAPA therefore believes that the appropriate response is neither a political trial nor a political cover-up.The answer must come from evidence.
NAPA does not declare anyone guilty merely because allegations have been made.But NAPA also believes that serious allegations must be investigated properly.No innocent person should be condemned without evidence.No victim should be denied justice.No political party should be above investigation.And no powerful person should be above the law.The people of Punjab deserve clarity about the ₹5-crore allegation.
Let an impartial investigation establish the facts and let the law take its course.