The Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch National Highway experienced a significant disruption on Monday afternoon, remaining inaccessible for over three and a half hours due to a protest by residents and traders of Bhambla market. The demonstration was held to demand the immediate arrest of individuals accused of the alleged brutal assault on a local shopkeeper.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the highway blockade brought vehicular traffic between Jammu, Rajouri, and Poonch to a complete halt. The protest was specifically called in response to an incident that occurred four days prior, wherein a local shopkeeper, identified as Sachin Puri, was reportedly attacked and severely injured inside his establishment by two youths. Mr. Puri is currently receiving medical attention in a Jammu hospital and is reported to be in critical condition.
Protesters voiced strong accusations against the local police, alleging a lack of prompt action in apprehending the suspects. They stated that despite the alleged assailants being identified, no arrests had been made. Demonstrators further claimed that their concerns had been escalated to senior police officials, who had offered assurances but failed to translate these into concrete action. The protesters expressed their dismay that the accused were allegedly moving freely in the community despite their alleged involvement in the violent assault.
The disruption on the national highway caused considerable inconvenience to numerous commuters. The traffic remained suspended for several hours, impacting travel plans and the movement of goods. Local authorities were compelled to intervene to de-escalate the situation. Senior police officers arrived at the protest site and engaged with the demonstrators in an effort to pacify them.
During the negotiations, police officials assured the protesters that all possible measures were being undertaken to apprehend the individuals involved in the assault. They further promised that once arrested, the accused would face strict legal proceedings in accordance with the law. Following these assurances from the law enforcement authorities, the protesters agreed to lift the blockade. Consequently, normal traffic movement on the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch National Highway was restored, bringing an end to the hours-long disruption.
The Chenab Times News Desk