Bike-Borne Assailants Rob Dhaba Operator and Shoot at Him in Himachal Pradesh

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a shocking turn of events, two bike-borne assailants opened fire at a Dhaba operator and looted cash and an LED TV in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. The incident occurred on the night of March 21st, in the Pulgharat area of the district, leaving the local community in fear.

The victim, Pradeep Guleria, a resident of Dayari, Tilli in Mandi district, was packing food for the assailants when he noticed them stealing cash from his counter. When he confronted them, one of the attackers pulled out a revolver-like weapon and fired at him. Fortunately, Guleria survived the attack and is currently being treated in the hospital for minor injuries to his hand and cheek. The robbers also made off with an LED TV from the Dhaba.

The police were quick to respond, registering an FIR at the Sadar Police Station under several sections, including attempted murder and theft. A Special Investigating Team (SIT), headed by Additional SP Sachin Hiremath, has been formed to investigate the case further. Initial investigations revealed that the bike rider was wearing a white cap, while the pillion rider had a black helmet. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence to track down the culprits.

The attack has shaken the local community, and residents are calling for increased security in the area. Local representatives have expressed concern over the growing crime rate and are demanding more preventive measures to ensure the safety of citizens and businesses alike.

In an unrelated case, the political atmosphere in Himachal Pradesh has also been tense, with the BJP ramping up demands for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the suspicious death of Vimal Negi, Chief Engineer of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL). Negi’s body was found in Govind Sagar Lake on March 18, after he had been missing since March 10. The opposition alleges that the state government mishandled the case, citing a lack of timely action and a possible cover-up. BJP leaders claim that Negi had been under severe stress due to alleged financial irregularities in HPPCL and are pushing for an independent investigation into his death.

Both cases highlight the growing concerns about safety and accountability in the state, prompting demands for action from both the public and political factions.