On 24 November 2025, several shopkeepers were summoned to a local police station late at night, despite the fact that they were already protected under a High Court restraining order. What followed, according to the victims, was not lawful inquiry, but harassment, humiliation, and abuse of authority.
Background of the Case
The affected individuals are small business owners who operate five shops, selling meetha paan and other paan products. These products are regularized and permitted by the Food Authority, and are legally sold in markets across the province. The legality of their business was already under judicial consideration, and on 12 November 2025, a petition was filed in the High Court, which resulted in a restraining order directing that the petitioners not be harassed or interfered with.
Despite this clear judicial protection, events took a disturbing turn.
What Allegedly Happened on 24 November 2025
According to eyewitness accounts and sworn statements:
- The shopkeepers were called to the police station around 9:02 PM.
- The SHO, Ali Zaib Dastgir, allegedly subjected them to physical and psychological torture.
- They were reportedly forced into humiliating positions, threatened, and verbally abused.
- Their beards and mustaches were forcibly cut, with adhesive reportedly applied afterward.
- They were allegedly made to imitate degrading acts in front of others as a warning.
- Other shopkeepers were called and shown the victims as an example, with threats of similar treatment if they did not comply.
All of this allegedly occurred after a High Court order explicitly restrained such actions.
Allegations of Extortion
The shopkeepers allege a wider pattern of corruption:
- Many paan sellers in the area are allegedly forced to pay monthly bribes to avoid false cases.
- Those who refuse to pay are allegedly booked under false gutka-related charges, despite not selling illegal products.
- The victims maintain they do not sell gutka and are willing to testify under oath, even on the Holy Quran, to prove this claim.
- Independent witnesses and fellow shopkeepers are reportedly ready to testify in support.
Legal Developments
Following the incident:
- Proceedings under Sections 107 and 151 CrPC were initiated, after which the individuals were released.
- A habeas corpus petition was filed, and court proceedings took place.
- The victims are preparing to approach the High Court again, this time making the SHO a formal party to the case.
- Documentary evidence, witness statements, and prior court orders are being compiled to demonstrate contempt of court and abuse of power.
A Call for Accountability
This matter raises serious concerns about:
- Violation of fundamental rights
- Disregard for High Court orders
- Police excesses and misuse of authority
- Systemic extortion at the local level
A formal request has been made to the Inspector General of Punjab Police to:
- Order an independent inquiry
- Call and hear the victims and witnesses directly
- Verify whether illegal products were ever sold
- Take strict departmental and legal action if misconduct is established
Conclusion
When law enforcement officials act above the law, it erodes public trust and damages the credibility of institutions meant to protect citizens. If the allegations are proven, this case would represent not just misconduct, but a direct challenge to judicial authority and the rule of law.
Justice demands transparency, accountability, and the courage to act, especially when power is misused against ordinary citizens.