Punjab tourists attack locals with swords in Himachal Pradesh; four detained

Tensions escalated in the Banjar area of Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, after a group of tourists from Punjab allegedly attacked residents with swords following a minor traffic altercation. The violent clash resulted in severe injuries to two locals, with one victim sustaining deep gashes on his hand and another having his cheek slashed. The incident, which occurred on the evening of May 10, has gained widespread attention after videos of the tourists brandishing weapons went viral on social media.

The confrontation reportedly began when a vehicle carrying four tourists from the Khanna region of Ludhiana district hit a resident. The minor accident quickly spiraled into a heated argument, during which two of the tourists allegedly retrieved swords from their vehicle and assaulted the bystanders. Residents quickly gathered at the spot and alerted the authorities, leading to the detention of the accused, identified as Mandeep Singh, Pradeep Singh, Jashanpreet, and Pritpal.

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The aftermath of the incident saw significant public unrest as a large crowd of locals besieged the Sainj police station until the early hours of May 11. Protesters accused the police of providing “VIP treatment” to the accused and alleged that the tourists were under the influence of synthetic drugs, commonly known as ‘Chitta.’ Concerns were also raised regarding a potential bribery attempt, with locals claiming the accused offered five lakh rupees to avoid prosecution. Residents further alleged that the police failed to conduct a proper medical examination and allowed the suspects to retain their mobile phones while in custody.

Refuting the allegations of negligence, investigating officer Kishori Lal from the Sainj police station confirmed that a formal case has been registered under sections 281, 125(A), 115(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The police stated that the weapons used in the assault have been recovered, and a medical examination of the suspects was indeed conducted. Officials clarified that the four men were released only after fulfilling the necessary bail bond requirements. Despite the police action, the local community continues to demand stricter regulations and inspections for tourists entering the state with weapons.