Background and Khalra’s Activism

Jaswant Singh Khalra, a 42‑year‑old human‑rights crusader, exposed alleged fake encounters and disappearances of Sikh youths by the Punjab police during the militancy era. His independent investigations rattled the police establishment, leading to his abduction from Amritsar on 6 September 1995.

Kikkar Singh’s Initial Testimony

On 24 October 1995, 53‑year‑old Kikkar Singh, a resident of Jaura village, encountered Khalra in the lock‑up of Kang police station. Singh recalled that Khalra was so badly injured that his hands could not reach his mouth. "I fed him roti with my own hands," Singh said, adding that Khalra whispered, “We have landed in the hands of torturers, they can do whatever they want.”

Why the Witness Turned Hostile

Initially, Singh recorded his statement before the CBI, confirming Khalra’s presence in police custody. However, the police allegedly harassed his family, detained his brother on false charges, and repeatedly raided his home. Under such pressure, Singh later turned hostile, claiming intimidation and threats to his life.

Current Status and New Revelations

Contrary to rumours of his disappearance, Singh now lives in Ludhiana and asserts he is very much alive. He clarified that he never contacted the makers of the banned biopic “Satluj,” despite the film’s depiction of his alleged co‑prisoner. A judicial inquiry independently verified Singh’s detention and the torture he witnessed, and a court order has placed him under police protection.

Implications for Justice and Human Rights

Singh’s renewed testimony revives the unresolved 1995 case, highlighting persistent issues of police brutality and witness intimidation in India. It underscores the need for a fresh, transparent inquiry to hold perpetrators accountable and to restore faith in democratic institutions.