“As far as the video is concerned, as already discussed, the connecting evidence was required to be collected by the I.O. as to who prepared the video and when the same was prepared. When the video was handed over to Press Reporter and who handed over the same and due certificate was required to be procured from the Forensic Science Laboratory and press reporter was also necessary witness who was also required to be associated in the investigation. Even he was not associated in the investigation. Therefore, for want of evidence no offence is made out against the accused. As such, the accused is thus acquitted of the charge under Section U/s 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and Amendment Act 2018. However, accused is member of Punjab police force and the allegations are serious, the department is at liberty to proceed against him independently without being caused with the observations and findings given in this case. Accused has been acquitted on the ground of benefit of doubt but not found the allegations false. His bail bonds and surety bonds are hereby discharged. Case property, if any is hereby ordered to be disposed of in accordance with rules after expiry period of limitation for filing the appeal or as per the directions of the learned appellate court as the case may be. Case file be consigned to record room.”
