Ludhiana Police File Case Against Village Head and Mob for Assaulting Journalist
Police in Ludhiana have officially registered a case against a local village head and approximately 20 of his associates following a violent attack on a digital journalist. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, is believed to be a direct retaliation for the reporter's coverage of failing infrastructure in the region.
Details of the Violent Confrontation
According to the police complaint, Sanjay Tiwari, who serves as the sarpanch, allegedly led a mob that intercepted and assaulted the 28-year-old female journalist. The attack is linked to her recent reporting on poor development projects along Dhandra Road. The complaint states that Tiwari and an associate named Akash blocked the journalist's path, subjected her to verbal abuse, and physically assaulted her.
The situation escalated when the victim fled to her home for safety. The group reportedly pursued her to the residence, where they pelted the house with stones and bricks, causing further distress and potential property damage.
Allegations of Inappropriate Conduct and Police Response
In her statement to authorities, the journalist also alleged that Sanjay Tiwari touched her inappropriately during the struggle. However, as the investigation continues, police have not yet included sexual harassment charges in the formal first-information report (FIR).
Investigating officer Balwinder Singh confirmed that a case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include:
- Voluntarily causing hurt under Section 115-2
- Wrongful restraint under Section 126-2
- Criminal intimidation under Section 351
- Unlawful assembly under Section 190
"The accused remains at large," stated Officer Singh. "We have launched a comprehensive probe and are currently tracking all suspects involved in this disturbing incident."
Broader Implications for Journalist Safety
This violent reprisal has ignited fresh concerns about the safety of independent journalists across India, particularly those who report on local governance issues and political accountability. The attack highlights the risks faced by journalists working to expose infrastructure failures and hold local authorities responsible for development projects.
The case continues to develop as police work to apprehend the accused and gather additional evidence. The journalist's reporting on Dhandra Road infrastructure problems appears to have triggered this aggressive response from local power figures.
