SC gives Param Bir Singh arrest protection in extortion case but asks him to join probe

The Supreme Court has granted former Mumbai top cop Param Bir Singh protection from arrest in an alleged extortion case. While granting the same, the court directed Param Bir Singh to join the investigation.

In the last hearing, the Supreme Court had said it will not entertain his plea for protection from arrest until it is known where he is. During the hearing on Monday, Param Bir Singh’s lawyer said he is “very much” in the country.

“He doesn’t want to abscond. He doesn’t want to run away. The issue however is that there is a very genuine threat to his life as soon as he enters Maharashtra,” the lawyer added. Param Bir Singh is ready to appear before any CBI official within 48 hours if the court asks him to, the former police officer’s counsel said.

PARAM BIR SINGH’S PLEA

Param Bir Singh’s legal counsel, arguing for protection from arrest for him on Monday, said on his behalf, “I don’t want to send out the impression that I have done anything wrong. I have full faith in the judiciary. Please grant me protection. I was the senior-most police officer, I won’t run away.”

He also alleged that “bookies and extortionists” who he had taken action against during his tenure were now filing complaints against him. “What do I expect from the Maharashtra government after this?” he asked.