Two days after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Nikku Bharti was assaulted in Ludhiana, the police have registered a case against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vicky Sahota and six others. The case was filed following a complaint by Bharti, who alleged that Sahota and his associates had been extorting money from local shopkeepers and later attacked him when he intervened.
Extortion Allegations Against BJP Leader
In his complaint to the police, Councillor Bharti, representing Ward No. 30, accused Vicky Sahota of extorting Rs 2,000 per month from each shopkeeper operating under the Dholewal Bridge. According to Bharti, Sahota used intimidation tactics to force shopkeepers to pay the amount regularly. The councillor claimed that the extortion had been ongoing for some time, causing fear among the local business community.
Incident on June 18
The incident occurred on June 18, when Bharti received a phone call from several shopkeepers informing him that a group of individuals were filming a spot under the bridge where a water cooler was being installed for public convenience. The shopkeepers alleged that the group was demanding money from them. Bharti stated that he rushed to the scene to resolve the matter. However, upon arrival, he was met with hostility. The accused, led by Vicky Sahota, began arguing with him and using abusive language. When Bharti attempted to leave, the group allegedly surrounded him and physically assaulted him.
Details of the Assault
The complainant named Vicky Sahota, his brother Rakesh (alias Tidda), Yash Sahota, and three to four unidentified individuals as the perpetrators of the attack. Bharti further alleged that Vicky Sahota’s wife, Sapna, also arrived at the scene and hurled abuses at him. During the assault, a young man named Bhupinder tried to come to Bharti’s rescue, but he too was attacked by the group. The accused also threatened to kill Bhupinder, according to the complaint.
Police Case and Counter-Complaint
Based on Bharti’s complaint, the police have registered a case against Vicky Sahota, Rakesh, Yash Sahota—all residents of Islamganj—and four unidentified persons. However, the BJP leader has also lodged a counter-complaint against the AAP councillor, alleging that Bharti and his associates attacked him first. The police are now investigating both versions of the incident.
Political Tensions in Ludhiana
The assault has highlighted the ongoing political tensions between the AAP and BJP in Ludhiana. The incident has drawn attention to the safety of local elected representatives and the prevalence of extortion in the area. The shopkeepers under Dholewal Bridge have expressed relief that the matter has been reported, but many remain wary of potential retaliation. The police have assured a thorough investigation into the allegations.
