Gadkari Takes Strong Stand on NHAI Officer Assault Case, Urges CM Sukhu for Swift Action
Shimla, July 1:
The alleged assault on an NHAI officer in Himachal Pradesh has triggered political uproar. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, condemned the incident, calling it a direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.
In a strongly worded social media post, Gadkari described the assault on Achal Jindal, Project Manager of NHAI PIU Shimla, by Himachal Pradesh’s Panchayati Raj Minister and his supporters as “disgraceful” and an “insult to the rule of law.” He said such an attack on an officer performing his official duties not only threatens individual safety but also undermines institutional dignity.
Gadkari added that he has taken the matter seriously and has spoken to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, demanding swift and exemplary action against those responsible. “Accountability must be established, and justice should not be delayed,” he wrote.
In response, Chief Minister Sukhu stated that appropriate action would be taken strictly within the legal framework. “I have spoken to Mr. Gadkari about the incident. Whatever action is taken will be as per the law,” he said.
The controversy erupted after the collapse of a five-storey building in Bhattakufar, Shimla. During an inspection at the site, NHAI officer Achal Jindal alleged that Minister Anirudh Singh first behaved in a threatening manner and then physically assaulted him in a closed room, causing injuries. Jindal was later taken for medical examination.
Based on his complaint, the Dhalli Police have filed an FIR against the minister under sections 132, 121(1), 352, 126(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The incident has quickly snowballed into a political flashpoint, with the opposition demanding the immediate dismissal of the minister.
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