A heated confrontation between an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor and a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader in Ludhiana on Thursday resulted in injuries to both individuals and their supporters. The altercation reportedly stemmed from a dispute over the occupation of a shop in the city.
Allegations and Counter-Allegations
BJP leader Vicky Sahota, who contested but lost the election from Ward 30, accused AAP councillor Nikku Bharti of illegally occupying shop number 252 and a liquor shop located under the Dholewal Bridge near Cheema Chowk. Sahota claimed that Bharti, accompanied by approximately 40 associates, attacked him with rods and sharp-edged weapons, causing a nose injury and a dislocated shoulder.
However, Bharti, who was also injured and receiving treatment at a hospital, refuted the allegations. He stated that the dispute revolved around a government-owned shop that belonged to the municipal corporation, asserting that no one had ownership rights over it. Bharti further alleged that Sahota demanded Rs 1 lakh to suppress the matter, and when he refused to pay, the argument escalated into violence. Bharti sustained serious injuries to his ear and neck.
Police Investigation Underway
The local police have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are examining statements from both parties and witnesses to piece together the sequence of events. Additionally, they are reviewing footage from CCTV cameras installed in the area to determine who instigated the clash.
Both leaders have leveled serious allegations against each other, and the police are working to verify the claims. The injured individuals are currently undergoing medical treatment, and further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
