Jalandhar, October 10, 2026: The police investigation into the alleged betting and lottery operation in Jalandhar’s Phagwara Gate area has taken another turn, with accused Harvinder Singh alias Monu reportedly falling unwell during his medical examination, even as questions are being raised over the manner in which other accused were handled by police.
Police Station Division No. 3 had carried out a raid in the Phagwara Gate area two days earlier following information regarding an alleged betting operation. During the action, police recovered computer equipment, mobile phones, documents and other material and initially rounded up 14 people for questioning.
Following investigation, police formally arrested Monu and several others in connection with the case. As part of the legal process, the accused were brought for medical examination on Saturday before further proceedings.
During the medical check-up, Monu’s health reportedly deteriorated. He was subsequently taken to the emergency ward, where doctors began treating him. His exact medical condition was not immediately disclosed.
The situation surrounding the other accused, however, attracted attention after visuals from outside the medical facility showed them being seated in a private vehicle while in police custody.
Separate visuals also appeared to show tea being provided to the accused, with accompanying police personnel seen having tea at the same location.
The images have triggered questions over whether normal custody and transportation procedures were followed. However, the visuals alone do not establish that any improper favour or special treatment was given, and any such conclusion would require clarification from the police authorities concerned.
The use of a private vehicle has become a particular point of discussion because accused persons are ordinarily transported under police supervision according to prescribed security arrangements. It remains unclear under what circumstances the vehicle seen in the visuals was being used and whether its use had been officially authorised.
The developments come shortly after another private vehicle owner raised concerns regarding the alleged use of his vehicle during police action connected with the same case and sought clarification from senior officials.
Police Station Division No. 3 SHO Jagdish Lal had earlier confirmed the raid and said police were investigating allegations relating to betting activity. During the initial operation, 14 people were taken for questioning before police determined the alleged roles of individual suspects.
The fresh controversy does not change the legal status of the people arrested in the case. They remain accused, and the allegations against them will have to be established through investigation and subsequent court proceedings.
At the same time, questions concerning police procedure are separate from the allegations against the accused. If concerns are raised regarding transportation, custody arrangements or other aspects of police handling, those issues can be independently examined by senior officers.
No detailed official clarification had been issued at the time of publication regarding the use of the private vehicle or allegations that the accused were given preferential treatment.
Monu’s health condition also remains under medical observation following the reported deterioration during his check-up.
The case has now attracted attention on two fronts—first, the investigation into the alleged betting operation in Phagwara Gate, and second, questions surrounding the procedures followed while the accused were being taken for medical examination.
Further clarity is expected once police officials provide a detailed response regarding Saturday’s developments and the circumstances surrounding the transportation and medical examination of the accused.
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