Tension gripped ITI Chowk in Budhlada, Mansa district, on Thursday after residents allegedly caught an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) in police uniform consuming ‘chitta’ (heroin) in public. The incident triggered protests, with locals blocking the road and demanding strict action against the police official.
The situation escalated when some protesters allegedly smashed the glass of a gate at a nearby automobile showroom, where police personnel had taken the ASI amid the gathering.
Police yet to establish ASI’s identity
Inspector Jaspreet Singh, SHO of Budhlada City police station, was present at the spot. He said the police were yet to ascertain the identity of the ASI and appealed to residents to allow the department to verify his credentials.
Sub-Inspector Mela Singh, SHO of Budhlada Sadar police station, was also present. Later, SP Narinder Singh reached the location and attempted to pacify the protesters as tensions continued.
The showroom owner also condemned the alleged conduct of the police official and demanded strict action.
Daljit Singh’s death on October 27 also sparked protests after his family claimed that he had died due to drug consumption. However, the police registered a murder case and said the circumstances surrounding his death were being investigated.
The two cases have intensified public anger over the drug menace and police accountability in the district. The latest incident in Budhlada has added to those concerns, with residents demanding action against the police official over the allegations.
