Court Finds No Immediate Threat, Affirms 'Y+' Security Cover by CRPF
In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed the petition filed by Harbhajan Singh, an elected Member of Parliament from the Rajya Sabha, challenging the withdrawal of his security cover. The decision, delivered by Justice Tribhuvan Dahiya on July 9, 2026, emphasized that the withdrawal was based on a prior threat assessment conducted by the Security Review Committee on March 3, 2026, which found no specific threats against Singh.
The petitioner, represented by a team of advocates, argued that the security withdrawal was abrupt and politically motivated, following his departure from the Aam Aadmi Party. Singh cited protests and derogatory labels as evidence of a persisting threat. However, the court noted that these factors alone do not constitute a direct threat to his life and liberty.
The State's counsel clarified that Singh's security concerns have been adequately addressed through a 'Y+' category security cover provided by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), as per an order from the Ministry of Home Affairs dated May 4, 2026. Additionally, local security deployment will be arranged whenever he visits Punjab, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Justice Dahiya concluded that the security withdrawal was not abrupt, as it was planned well before Singh's political shift, and the existing security measures are sufficient. The court found no grounds for further intervention and disposed of the petition.
Bottom line:-
Security cover withdrawn for an elected Member of Parliament due to a prior threat assessment conducted by the Security Review Committee. Protests and branding as a traitor do not establish a direct threat to life and liberty. Petitioner already provided 'Y+' category security by CRPF, with additional local deployment assured when in Punjab.
Statutory provision(s): Constitution Of India, Writ of Certiorari and Mandamus
Harbhajan Singh v. State of Punjab, (Punjab And Haryana) : Law Finder Doc id # 2942477
