Violent Clash Erupts Outside Ludhiana Police Station, Five Injured in Kirpan Attack
A violent confrontation broke out between two rival groups outside the Machhiwara police station in Ludhiana on Wednesday, resulting in approximately five individuals sustaining injuries. The police have taken swift action, booking members of one faction for attempt to murder and the opposing party for voluntarily causing hurt. This incident highlights escalating tensions in the area, with authorities vowing to crack down on hooliganism.
Background of the Dispute and Initial Attack
According to DSP Samrala Tarlochan Singh, the conflict originated from a dispute involving Nihang Ravinder Singh of Araq Bhattiyan village and a rival group from the same village over a servant named Nirbhay Singh. The situation escalated on Tuesday evening when Ravinder, along with Nihang Amanjot Singh, allegedly attacked the other group, injuring Nirbhay Singh. This initial altercation set the stage for the subsequent violent clash at the police station.
Police Station Confrontation and Kirpan Assault
On Wednesday, members of both groups arrived at the Machhiwara police station to file complaints against each other. During this encounter, the Nihangs reportedly drew their kirpans (traditional Sikh swords) and launched an attack on the rival group. In the ensuing fight, three individuals from one group—Parminder Singh, Kamaljit Singh, and Tejinder Singh—were injured. Local sources revealed that one victim bore a kirpan mark on his neck, noting that a more forceful blow could have posed a life-threatening risk. Additionally, Ravinder and Amanjot also suffered injuries after being assaulted with smaller kirpans during the clash.
Police Response and Legal Actions
The police responded promptly to the incident, booking Ravinder and Amanjot for attempt to murder and arresting them. During the investigation, an air gun was recovered from their vehicle. A cross-case has been registered, with the rival group booked for voluntarily causing hurt. DSP Tarlochan Singh emphasized that no one involved in hooliganism would be spared, underscoring the commitment to maintaining law and order.
Allegations of Drug Trafficking and Further Investigations
In a related development, one of the groups lodged allegations of drug trafficking against the arrested individuals. In response, the DSP stated that dope tests would be conducted on the accused to verify these claims. This adds another layer to the investigation, as authorities work to address all aspects of the conflict and ensure justice is served.
The incident has drawn significant attention, with a video of the clash surfacing online, further amplifying concerns about public safety and police station security in the region.