5 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : The Punjab Legislative Assembly’s Privileges Committee has decided to initiate a probe into the alleged role of the Punjab Police in the controversial “doctored” video row, escalating a political and institutional dispute that has stirred sharp reactions across the state. The move signals a deeper scrutiny of whether law enforcement officials acted in a manner that breached the privileges of the House and its members.
The controversy centres around a video clip that allegedly surfaced in an edited or “doctored” form, purportedly involving remarks linked to a sitting legislator. Opposition leaders have claimed that the video was manipulated and selectively circulated to malign an elected representative and influence public perception. They further alleged that elements within the Punjab Police either facilitated the circulation or failed to act impartially.
Taking cognisance of the matter, the Privileges Committee has resolved to examine whether the actions—or inactions—of the police amounted to a violation of legislative privilege. The committee is expected to seek explanations from senior police officials and may summon officers connected to the case as part of its inquiry.
Legislative privilege is designed to protect the dignity, authority, and functioning of the House and its members. Any act that undermines these protections, whether by individuals, institutions, or state agencies, can be subject to scrutiny by the Privileges Committee. In this case, opposition parties argue that the alleged circulation of a doctored video strikes at the heart of democratic norms and legislative independence.
The issue first gained traction when the video began circulating widely on social media platforms, triggering political outrage and counter-allegations. The lawmaker at the centre of the row denied the authenticity of the clip, claiming it had been manipulated to distort the context of his remarks. The controversy soon moved from the digital sphere into the Assembly, where opposition members demanded accountability.
During Assembly proceedings, leaders from multiple parties raised concerns about the role of the Punjab Police, questioning whether the force had acted under political pressure. They argued that instead of ensuring a fair and transparent investigation into the video’s origins, the police appeared to have taken sides, thereby compromising their neutrality.
The government, however, has rejected allegations of political interference. Officials have maintained that the police acted strictly in accordance with the law and that any investigation related to the video was based on available evidence. They have also stated that the authenticity of the video and its circulation are matters of legal inquiry, not political posturing.
Despite these assurances, the decision of the Privileges Committee reflects the seriousness with which the Assembly views the matter. Committee members are expected to examine timelines, communication records, and procedural steps taken by the police once the video surfaced. The inquiry may also look into whether due process was followed and whether any officer exceeded or misused authority.
Legal experts note that a privileges probe does not automatically imply guilt but serves as a mechanism to establish facts and protect institutional integrity. If the committee finds evidence of a breach, it can recommend action ranging from reprimands to more serious consequences, depending on the gravity of the findings.
The episode has reignited debate over the politicisation of law enforcement in Punjab. Critics argue that frequent allegations of police bias undermine public trust, while supporters of the government counter that opposition parties often use such claims to deflect from substantive issues.
Civil society voices have also weighed in, calling for transparency and restraint. They stress that in an era of viral misinformation, authorities must exercise extra caution before acting on digital content, especially when it involves elected representatives.
For the Punjab Police, the probe represents a sensitive moment. As an institution tasked with upholding the law impartially, any adverse finding by the Privileges Committee could have reputational implications. Senior officials are expected to cooperate fully with the inquiry to demonstrate institutional accountability.
Politically, the issue is likely to remain alive in the coming weeks, with opposition parties expected to press for swift conclusions and clear accountability. The government, meanwhile, faces the challenge of balancing defence of its agencies with respect for legislative oversight.
As the Privileges Committee begins its probe, all eyes will be on how the Assembly navigates the intersection of politics, policing, and digital evidence. The outcome could set an important precedent for how similar controversies are handled in the future, particularly in cases involving alleged misinformation and the role of state institutions.
Summary:
Punjab Assembly’s Privileges Committee has ordered a probe into the Punjab Police’s alleged role in a doctored video controversy, examining claims of bias and possible breach of legislative privilege.