Tourists from Punjab faced backlash in Himachal Pradesh for waving a flag featuring Khalistani extremist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. | (Photo Courtesy: X/@GemsHimachal)
Kullu, Himachal Pradesh: A series of incidents involving tourists from Punjab have sparked controversy and public outrage in Himachal Pradesh. Several videos of the events have surfaced on social media.
In Manali, a biker from Punjab faced backlash from locals on Saturday, March 15, for reportedly waving a flag featuring Khalistani extremist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The enraged residents removed the flag from the wooden pole attached to his motorcycle. The incident, termed as an anti-national act by the lcoals, led to police intervention.
Have a look at the video here:
As per a report by News 18, Manali Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) KD Sharma confirmed that action has been taken against the biker under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Commotion at SADA Border
In a separate incident in Kasol, a group of tourists from Punjab, riding approximately 20 motorcycles, caused a commotion at the SADA barrier in Manikaran valley. The barrier, which collects a nominal fee for area maintenance, became a flashpoint when the tourists allegedly refused to pay. The situation escalated when they broke the barrier and proceeded towards Manikaran.
An altercation broke out between the tourists and a Home Guard jawan near Bachat Bhawan. As per the report, the jawan, identified as Yashpal, attempted to regulate traffic when a group of eight to ten bikers from Punjab ignored his signal to stop. When he stood in front of them to enforce traffic rules, an argument ensued, quickly escalating as 15 to 20 additional bikers joined in. The situation turned violent as the tourists allegedly attacked the officer.
Kullu Superintendent of Police (SP) Karthikeyan Gokulchandran confirmed that a case has been registered against the group.