Sambhal ‘fake encounter’: Rights panel seeks ADG report after 17-month delay

BAREILLY: Taking a stern view of the Sambhal ‘fake encounter’ case, the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) in UP has directed the ADG, Bareilly Zone, to submit a detailed probe report. The commission also noted that despite its Dec 17, 2024, order, no report had been filed yet, and hence sought a written explanation about “why the report wasn’t submitted timely”.“The commission set May 19, 2026 as the deadline for submission of the report, and fixed May 20, 2026, as the next hearing date,” said advocate Gajendra Singh Yadav.The advocate added: “The case stems from a Nov 2024 viral video in which then-Sambhal SP KK Bishnoi was purportedly seen threatening an accused lying injured on a stretcher after a police encounter, saying the ‘next bullet will be fired into his head.’ He was held for stealing a temple bell.”Terming the encounter “prima facie suspicious and in serious violation of human rights”, Yadav moved the state commission. He sought compensation for the victim, an impartial probe by a senior officer and protection from coercion during the investigation.ADG Bareilly zone, Ramit Sharma, wasn’t available to comment on the matter.