The Punjab and Haryana High Court has extended the deadline for the judicial probe committee to present its findings on the demise of Shubhkaran Singh, a farmer engaged in protest, by an additional six weeks.

Acting Chief Justice GS Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji acknowledged the communication from the probe committee, which stated that six weeks would be necessary to thoroughly investigate the death of Shubhkaran Singh. The Court directed both Punjab and Haryana to fully cooperate with the committee in its inquiry process.

Singh tragically lost his life on February 21 during protests, which included advocating for a law ensuring Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops along the Punjab-Haryana border. Allegations suggest that he succumbed to injuries from a bullet fired by the Haryana police.

On March 7, the Court declared that due to apparent conflicts of interest, the investigation into Singh's death could not be entrusted to either Punjab or Haryana, as both states were believed to have potential motives to conceal information. Consequently, the Court established a three-member committee comprising retired High Court judge Justice Jaishree Thakur, along with two officers of ADGP rank from Haryana and Punjab, to oversee the inquiry.

The Haryana Government contested the decision in the Supreme Court, opposing the High Court's directive for a judicial inquiry into the farmer's death during protests. However, the Supreme Court declined to issue a stay on the High Court's order. In its oral remarks, the Court expressed that a judicial probe would guarantee an impartial investigation into the accusations leveled against the Haryana police.

Justice Surya Kant, the presiding judge, orally conveyed to Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, who vehemently opposed the order for a judicial probe, that the High Court had appointed a former judge, demonstrating thoughtful consideration. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the right to a fair investigation, indicating support for the High Court's decision.

The matter is deferred to the last week of May for further consideration.

Title: Uday Pratap Singh Vs. UOI & others