Ludhiana: A routine traffic check on the Ludhiana–Chandigarh highway turned tense on Saturday after a man allegedly impersonating a Vigilance Bureau official created a scene, assaulted policemen and attempted to flee. The incident took place at Mundian Kalan Chowk, where traffic personnel had set up a checking point.
According to police officials, the trouble began when a Tata Indigo car was stopped for not displaying a mandatory high-security registration plate. When traffic police ASI Dalip Kumar asked the occupants to produce documents, the driver, later identified as Raj Kumar Khatri, reportedly claimed to be a senior officer of the Vigilance Department and warned the policemen of “serious consequences” for stopping him.
Officials said the situation escalated after Khatri was asked to show identification to support his claim. He allegedly stepped out of the vehicle, began hurling abuses and physically confronted the traffic staff. ASI Kumar stated that during the altercation, the accused manhandled him, tearing buttons off his uniform, while his two companions also joined in, pushing and threatening other policemen who tried to intervene.
“The accused obstructed us from performing our duty, disrespected the uniform and tried to intimidate the staff by posing as a government officer,” ASI Kumar said in his complaint.
Following the scuffle, the trio managed to drive away from the spot. However, the traffic control room was alerted immediately, and police teams intercepted the vehicle at the next junction. All three occupants were detained and taken into custody.
Police have registered a case against the accused for impersonation, obstructing public servants in the discharge of official duties, assault and related offences. Further investigation is underway to verify their backgrounds and determine whether similar incidents were reported earlier.
Senior officials said strict action would be taken, adding that impersonation of government officers and attacks on police personnel would not be tolerated under any circumstances. ( Ludhiana–Chandigarh highway news)
