A controversy has erupted in Jalandhar after a retired Indian Army NSG (Black Cat) commando accused a Punjab Police Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of assaulting him following an argument over rash driving in a residential street. The retired commando, identified as Sandeep Kumar, has alleged that the ASI grabbed him by the throat, slapped him and misbehaved with him when he objected to the speed of his car.
The incident reportedly took place on Friday evening in the Chitti Nagar area of Jalandhar. Sandeep Kumar claims that he was standing outside with his dog when a Swift car, allegedly being driven at high speed by the ASI, passed through the street. He said he had to intervene to prevent his dog from coming under the vehicle.
The retired soldier has also alleged that his mobile phone was damaged during the scuffle and that he sustained an injury to his neck. A video of the confrontation has also surfaced.
Retired commando says he saved his dog from speeding car
Recounting the incident, Sandeep Kumar said he was standing in the street with his dog and had stepped out to buy vegetables when a Punjab Police ASI allegedly drove past in a Swift car at a high speed.
According to him, he managed to save his dog from being hit by the vehicle and subsequently questioned the officer about his driving.
Sandeep Kumar said he reminded the ASI that driving recklessly in a residential locality could have resulted in a serious accident. He also pointed out that police personnel are expected to uphold the responsibility and discipline associated with their uniform.
He reportedly told the officer that he had also served in uniform before retiring and understood its importance.
'Your dog didn't die, right?' ASI allegedly replied
Describing his conversation with the officer, the retired commando alleged that when he questioned the ASI about driving so fast, the officer responded by saying, "Your dog didn't die, right?"
Sandeep Kumar said the response was particularly upsetting because he had intervened only to prevent his dog from being run over.
He maintained that his intention was to make the officer understand the dangers of speeding in a residential street, where pedestrians, children and animals could be at risk.
ASI allegedly slapped him and grabbed his throat
The disagreement allegedly escalated when Sandeep Kumar confronted the ASI over his driving. The retired commando claimed that the officer misbehaved with him, slapped him and grabbed him by the throat.
He further alleged that the ASI became physically aggressive during the confrontation.
While describing the incident, Sandeep Kumar said he could not confirm whether the officer was under the influence of alcohol, but maintained that his behaviour was unacceptable.
A video of the confrontation has also surfaced, reportedly showing the ASI arguing with the retired commando and allegedly attempting to intimidate him.
Mobile phone broken, injury reported on neck
The alleged scuffle also resulted in damage to Sandeep Kumar's mobile phone, which fell to the ground during the confrontation and broke.
The retired NSG commando has also claimed that he sustained an injury to his neck after the alleged assault.
He subsequently visited the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar, where he got his medico-legal report (MLR) prepared to document his injuries.
'I will not spare him until he is suspended'
Taking a firm stand, Sandeep Kumar said he would not back down until action was taken against the ASI.
He made it clear that he would not agree to any compromise or succumb to pressure and insisted that the officer should be suspended.
The retired commando said he would visit Rama Mandi police station the following day to submit a formal complaint. However, he added that if the local police failed to listen to him, particularly given that the ASI's wife is an SHO, he would file an online complaint directly with the Jalandhar Police Commissioner (CP).
He also appealed to the Punjab DGP and senior police officials to intervene and ensure an impartial investigation.
Demands strict action from Police Commissioner
Sandeep Kumar has demanded the immediate suspension of the accused ASI and strict departmental action if the allegations are established.
He also urged the police administration to take the matter seriously and ensure that no police personnel is allowed to misuse their position or influence to escape accountability.
The retired commando said that wearing a uniform comes with responsibility and that police personnel must respect the very discipline and dignity associated with it.
The allegations have raised questions about police conduct and accountability in Jalandhar. However, the claims are yet to be independently established, and the matter will require a fair investigation, including examination of the video footage, medical report and statements of those involved.
