Kullu, Jan 19:
In a disturbing incident that has shaken the administration, Kullu police on Monday arrested a Block Development Council (BDC) member from Thakur for allegedly leading a violent assault on government revenue officials during a land demarcation drive in Kan Gowan Panchayat last week.
According to police, the BDC member, along with his relative, attacked a Kanungo and a Patwari who had reached the spot to demarcate disputed land following a complaint. The officials were beaten mercilessly, leaving them badly injured. They were later rushed to Kullu Zonal Hospital for medical treatment.
The FIR reveals that the accused not only assaulted the officials but also illegally detained them and obstructed them from performing their official duties, a serious offence under the law. Police have invoked sections related to assault, wrongful confinement and obstruction of public servants. Senior officers said the investigation is underway and more arrests are expected as other accused are being identified.
Political Storm
The case soon snowballed into a major political controversy after Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur and BJP MLAs raised the issue during their Kullu visit last week. They slammed the government, alleging that law and order has collapsed in Himachal Pradesh, pointing out that officials are now being attacked in broad daylight.
Jairam Thakur demanded strict action and called for stringent sections, including attempt to murder, to be slapped against the accused to send a strong message.
CM Steps In
With political pressure mounting, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed the police to take immediate and stern action. Following his instructions, the police arrested the main accused on Monday.
The Chief Minister also made it clear that any attack on government employees will not be tolerated and assured strict punishment to those involved.
Revenue Staff Protest
Angered by the assault, Patwaris and Kanungos in Kullu went on strike, demanding safety while on duty and swift arrests. Routine revenue work was badly hit, reflecting the growing fear among field staff.
What Lies Ahead
Police officials confirmed that the probe is continuing and more people involved in the attack will soon be booked. Authorities are also verifying if the assault was planned to protect illegal encroachments.
As the investigation deepens, the case is expected to further heat up the political climate in Himachal Pradesh, putting the government’s law-and-order record under sharp scrutiny.
