The Chandigarh police has sought time to file reply in a defamation suit filed against it by a Dhanas resident in a drunken driving case. The complainant has prayed for Rs 10 lakh compensation from the police for challaning him for drunken driving despite his being a teetotaler.

Complainant Harvinder Singh was challaned on October 16, 2014, at Sector 36 light point and his vehicle was also impounded. Singh challenged the challan in the court, saying he was a teetotaler, follower of Radha Soami sect and has never touched alcohol in his life. His medical report, which was negative, was also produced in the court.

His counsel Sudesh Kumar said, "The prosecution did not turn up in the court and could not produce any evidence against him." The court acquitted Singh of all charges.

Singh then filed a civil defamation case against the Chandigarh police, stating that they tarnished his image and he was tagged as a drunken by society. He also stated that the challan hurt his sentiments as he was a follower of the Radha Soami sect and that he went through mental agony and harassment.