Former Punjab Police IG Attempts Suicide Amid Cyber Fraud Allegations

Amar Singh Chahal, a former Inspector-General of Police in Punjab, has reportedly attempted suicide after losing a significant amount of money in a cyber fraud scheme. He is currently in critical condition following the incident. A note found at his residence indicates financial distress linked to an alleged Rs 8.1-crore fraud. Chahal is also under scrutiny for his involvement in the controversial 2015 Kotkapura firing case, where police actions against protesters led to injuries and fatalities. The investigation into both the suicide attempt and the fraud allegations is ongoing, raising serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding these events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 20:43 IST

Incident Overview

Amar Singh Chahal, a former Inspector-General of Police in Punjab, reportedly shot himself using a security guard's revolver on Monday. This tragic event occurred after he allegedly fell victim to a cyber fraud scheme, resulting in significant financial loss.

Following the incident, Chahal was rushed to the hospital with a serious chest injury and is currently in critical condition, according to reports.

Varun Sharma, the Senior Superintendent of Police in Patiala, stated that a 12-page letter was found at Chahal's residence, where the shooting took place. The note, addressed to the Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, outlines his financial troubles stemming from an alleged Rs 8.1-crore cyber fraud.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the claims made by Chahal.

Chahal is also facing accusations related to the 2015 Kotkapura firing case, where police action against protesters resulted in injuries and fatalities.

Background of the Kotkapura Incident

In October 2015, police in Kotkapura fired upon a group of demonstrators and used batons to disperse them, leading to several injuries. On the same day, two individuals were killed in police gunfire in Behbal Kalan village.

These protests were sparked by a series of incidents involving the desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of the Sikh community.

Numerous individuals have been implicated in a conspiracy to employ unlawful and excessive force against the protesters, facing charges that include attempted murder and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code, as well as violations of the Arms Act.