A dhaba in Ropar witnessed a harrowing incident on Monday when an Army Major and his comrades faced a brutal assault by the eatery’s staff and owner. Punjab Police confirmed on Thursday that the dhaba has been sealed and four individuals, including the owner’s son and dhaba staff, have been arrested.
The arrested individuals, including Jaikar Singh and manager Manpreet Singh, along with two waiters named Rajnish Kumar and Tanai Kumar, are in custody. Additionally, police have identified five more suspects, and efforts are underway to apprehend them. The Alpine Dhaba has been closed for further investigation.
The soldiers, who sustained injuries during the altercation, received medical assistance in Ropar before being transferred to Command Hospital at Chandimandir. Punjab Police commended the soldiers for their restraint in the face of the assault.
In a statement, Punjab Police assured that the state and district administrations are working closely to expedite action in the case. They also conveyed appreciation to the Army for their dignified response.
The state government and Punjab Police have reiterated their commitment to the welfare of all soldiers. They emphasized that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act will not impact Indian Muslims and that they hold the Army in high regard.
Initially reported by The Indian Express, the incident involved a Major and his team of 16 jawans who were attacked by the owner and workers of Alpine Dhaba, located on the Manali-Ropar road in Punjab. The soldiers sustained serious injuries during the assault.
According to the FIR filed on Tuesday, the altercation began when Major Sachin Singh Kuntal and his troops, returning from Palchan near Manali after participating in a snow marathon, stopped at the dhaba for dinner. Dispute arose over the mode of payment, and a violent confrontation ensued.
A case has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including attempt to murder, voluntarily causing hurt, and criminal intimidation, at the Kiratpur Sahib Police Station. Additionally, a supplementary FIR has been lodged, naming prime suspects.