A recent incident of a Punjabi-origin non-resident Indian (NRI) being allegedly assaulted in Himachal Pradesh has stirred controversy, with Punjab leaders linking it to the earlier incident involving actor Kangana Ranaut at Chandigarh airport. According to a PTI report, Kawaljit Singh, a Punjabi NRI, was allegedly beaten by a group of local men in Himachal Pradesh following an argument over parking. Singh, who was living in Spain with his Spanish wife for 25 years, had recently returned to Punjab. He claims he was targeted because he is Punjabi. He was admitted to a hospital in Amritsar for treatment.
The incident has sparked a row with Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla, and Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia demanding action from the Himachal Pradesh government. Majithia and Aujla even suggested that the attack was linked to the recent incident involving actor and BJP MP from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut, who was allegedly slapped by a CISF woman constable at Chandigarh airport for her previous comments over protesting farmers.
Singh alleged that he was attacked by a group of around 100 people following an argument over some parking issue. He also alleged police apathy in the matter. However, a senior IPS officer from Himachal Pradesh, IG (Northern Range) Santosh Patial, rejected Singh’s claims. Patial stated that Singh had come to Khajjiar in Chamba district and was doing palm reading for some women. A scuffle ensued after someone felt offended by this act. Both parties later reached a compromise in front of the police. Patial clarified that Singh had given in writing that he wanted no legal action and left. He emphasized that there was no interstate or inter-community dispute and assured that tourists are welcome in Himachal Pradesh.
The Himachal Pradesh police have denied any connection between the incident and the Kangana Ranaut case. They maintain that it was an isolated incident stemming from a personal dispute. However, the incident has raised concerns among Punjab leaders who are demanding a thorough investigation and action against those responsible for the alleged assault.
