In a face-saving measure ahead of the hearing in the Punjab and Haryana High Court over the controversial audio clip pertaining to Punjab Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections, alleged to be that of Varun Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Patiala, the officer is learnt to have proceeded on leave.

According to sources in the Patiala police, Sharma was on leave from December 10 to December 15 to address personal family commitments. Sartaj Singh Chahal, SSP Sangrur, has been given additional charge of the post.

On Monday, the Punjab and Haryana High Court asked the Punjab State Election Commission (SEC) to expedite its inquiry into an audio clip at the centre of a political row, and submit its response within two days.

The Division Bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Just

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