Tension gripped ITI Chowk in Budhlada, Mansa district, on Thursday as residents apprehended an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) in uniform allegedly consuming ‘chitta,’ a form of heroin, in public. The incident ignited a protest, prompting locals to block the road and demand stringent action against the police official.
Protest Erupts Over Alleged Drug Consumption by ASI
The agitated protesters also resorted to smashing the glass of a gate at a nearby automobile showroom, which had been used to temporarily house the ASI for his safety from the gathering mob. Inspector Jaspreet Singh, Station House Officer (SHO) of the Budhlada City police station, who was present at the scene, stated that the police were still in the process of verifying the identity of the ASI. He appealed to the public to cooperate and allow the authorities to complete the necessary verification procedures.
Sub-Inspector Mela Singh, SHO of the Budhlada Sada police station, was also on site. Later, Senior Superintendent of Police (SP) Narinder Singh arrived at the location and engaged with the protesters in an effort to de-escalate the situation.
The owner of the automobile showroom also voiced strong condemnation regarding the alleged conduct of the police officer and called for immediate action to be taken against him.
Allegations of Drug Peddling and Witness Accounts
Several women participated in the protest, levelling accusations that certain women in the locality were involved in drug peddling. They claimed to have personally witnessed the ASI consuming the illicit substance. The situation remained tense in the area for a considerable period, with additional security personnel deployed to manage the crowd.
Some Nihangs also arrived at the site as the tension persisted. The incident unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing public demonstrations in Mansa, which have been fueled by the recent killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota and the mysterious death of marginal farmer Daljit Singh. Protesters have been vocal in their demands for accountability from the police and swift action against those implicated in these cases.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the incident has further heightened concerns among residents about drug-related issues and the perceived failure of law enforcement to adequately address them. The public’s reaction underscores a deep-seated frustration with drug abuse and its associated criminal activities within the community.
The alleged involvement of a police officer in such an act has raised serious questions about the integrity and conduct of law enforcement personnel in the region. Residents expressed dismay that individuals entrusted with upholding the law might be implicated in illegal activities, further eroding public trust.
Authorities have stated that a thorough investigation into the matter has been initiated. The ASI in question has been taken into custody, and departmental proceedings are expected to follow. The Punjab Police Department has indicated that no officer found guilty of misconduct will be spared, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining discipline and public order.
The incident in Budhlada highlights the persistent challenge of drug trafficking and consumption in Punjab, a state that has grappled with the issue for decades. The ‘chitta’ menace, in particular, has been a cause of significant concern due to its highly addictive nature and devastating impact on individuals and families.
The protests witnessed on Thursday signal a growing impatience among the public for tangible results in the fight against drugs. The community’s demand for accountability extends beyond individual cases, reflecting a broader call for systemic reforms and more effective strategies to combat the drug epidemic.
The SHO of Budhlada City police station assured the public that all allegations would be investigated impartially. He also reiterated the police’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the citizens and working collaboratively with the community to address their concerns.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
