19 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : The Punjab government has informed the Punjab and Haryana High Court that intelligence inputs pointing to an alleged “hit list” and suspected terror links were the primary reasons behind the issuance of a fresh detention order against radical preacher Amritpal Singh.
Submitting its response before the High Court, the state said the decision to re-detain Amritpal under stringent laws was taken to safeguard public order and national security, citing classified intelligence and security assessments.
State’s Stand Before the Court
According to the Punjab government, fresh intelligence reports suggested that Amritpal had links with extremist elements and posed a continuing threat if released. The state argued that preventive detention was necessary as conventional legal provisions were insufficient to neutralise the risk posed by his alleged activities.
Officials told the court that Amritpal’s name figured in intelligence assessments related to radicalisation, potential targeted violence, and efforts to disturb communal harmony in Punjab.
Alleged ‘Hit List’ Cited
One of the key arguments presented by the state was the existence of a purported “hit list,” which allegedly included names of individuals and institutions that could be targeted to create fear and instability. While the details of the list were not disclosed in open court due to security concerns, the government maintained that the threat perception was credible and immediate.
The state said intelligence agencies had flagged the possibility of violence if Amritpal were allowed to operate freely, especially given his past influence and mobilisation capacity.
Terror Links and Radical Network
The Punjab government also referred to alleged links between Amritpal and extremist networks, including individuals based abroad. Authorities claimed these networks were involved in funding, propaganda, and coordination aimed at reviving separatist sentiments in the state.
The government told the court that Amritpal’s activities were not isolated acts of free speech or dissent but part of a broader pattern that had the potential to undermine peace and security.
Background of the Detention
Amritpal Singh rose to prominence in 2022–23 as the head of a radical organisation, drawing attention for his fiery speeches and open challenge to the state machinery. His activities led to a massive security crackdown in Punjab, during which he was arrested and later detained under preventive detention laws.
Following the expiry of an earlier detention order, the state issued a fresh one, prompting legal challenges from his family and supporters, who argued that the detention was arbitrary and violated constitutional rights.
Government Defends Preventive Detention
In its submission, the Punjab government stressed that preventive detention is legally permissible when there is a real and imminent threat to public order. It argued that Amritpal’s influence, coupled with intelligence warnings, justified extraordinary measures.
The state also rejected claims that the detention was politically motivated, asserting that the decision was purely based on security considerations and expert assessments from multiple agencies.
Defence Challenges State’s Claims
Amritpal’s legal counsel reportedly questioned the credibility of the state’s claims, arguing that vague references to intelligence inputs and undisclosed documents cannot be used to justify prolonged detention. The defence contended that the state was misusing preventive detention laws to suppress dissent.
The matter has now become a focal point of debate on the balance between individual liberty and national security.
Court to Examine Material
The High Court indicated that it would examine the material placed before it, including confidential intelligence reports, to determine whether the detention meets the legal threshold. The court is expected to assess whether the state followed due process and whether the grounds for detention are sufficient and specific.
Legal experts note that courts typically exercise caution in such cases, especially when national security concerns are cited, but also emphasise the need for accountability and proportionality.
Wider Implications for Punjab
The case has once again brought the spotlight on Punjab’s security situation and the state’s efforts to prevent the resurgence of extremist ideologies. While authorities insist that strong action is necessary to maintain peace, civil liberties groups have urged transparency and judicial scrutiny.
As the High Court proceedings continue, the outcome is likely to have significant implications not just for Amritpal Singh, but also for how preventive detention laws are applied in Punjab going forward.
Summary
Punjab told the High Court that alleged terror links and a suspected hit list justified a fresh detention order against Amritpal Singh, citing intelligence inputs and concerns over public order and security.