The Supreme Court, on March 4, issued an interim order directing Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia to present himself before the Punjab Police for interrogation in a drug case on March 17. 

A bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Aravind Kumar was hearing an appeal filed by the Punjab Police challenging the High Court's decision to grant regular bail to Majithia.

"The authorities may interrogate on these issues and complete the investigation. He will continue to appear on the date as and when required," the Court ordered.

The bench issued an interim order directing Bikram Singh Majithia to appear at the SIT Headquarters in Patiala for interrogation at 11 AM on March 17.  

Punjab’s Advocate General, Gurminder Singh, sought the cancellation of Majithia’s bail, arguing that he was not cooperating with the investigation. Singh informed the court that Majithia had been presented with a written questionnaire but refused to respond.

"Our apprehension is only one. I am not on cancellation. But cooperation and investigation is a sine qua non for us. Appear, cooperate and answer," Singh submitted. However, Justice Kumar orally remarked that it cannot be accepted that Majithia will provide answers as and how the Punjab Government wants him to answer.

Clarifying that this is not the case, Singh explained: "He says, I will not reply. This is the answer- I have a right not to reply...My problem is when I call him, he says I have got bail and I have got no answer to anything. This is his answer in the affidavit. Please see."

Senior Advocate R. Basant, for Majitha, suggested that the Court specify in the order that he is ready to appear for two days. "Your lordship may direct, I will appear for two days. Kindly don't leave it to them because it's being used for political purposes and I am unnecessarily being harassed. If your Lordship wants two days, I will appear. Please don't leave it to them."

The matter will be heard on March 24.

Case Details: THE STATE OF PUNJAB Vs BIKRAM SINGH MAJITHIA| SLP(Crl) No. 3650/2023