Seven days, no action on FIR; locals concerned over law and order in temple city
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: A brutal assault on hotel staff in Jammu’s Trikuta Nagar on Dec 31, had sent shockwaves throughout the Jammu City, with the police yet to take decisive action against the absconding goons even after seven days. The incident, which stemmed from a dispute over bill payment on new year’s eve party, left hotel manager with severe head injuries and another staffer with facial fractures.
The prime accused, Mohit and Shashank Aggarwal-sons of prominent businessman Rakesh Aggarwal, and their accomplices remain at large, further fueling public outrage. Adding to the concern, the police have been unable to identify several accomplices who were called by the Aggarwal brothers to join the attack. Despite growing demands for accountability, the police have been accused of dragging their feet in the case, giving the assaulters a long rope to evade arrest.
In a dramatic turn, a police raid at the Aggarwal family’s residence yesterday failed to apprehend the accused. The family claimed the brothers were out of town, but neighbours alleged they saw the duo entering the house shortly before the raid.
The failed raid has only intensified criticism of the police, with many accusing the department of inefficiency or undue leniency. Civil society groups have expressed concern over the city’s deteriorating law and order, demanding immediate action.
Police efforts to track down other accomplices involved in the attack have also come under scrutiny. According to CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts, Mohit and Shashank Aggarwal summoned a group of goons to assist them in the assault. However, seven days after the incident, the identities of most of accomplices remain unknown, raising questions about the efficiency of the investigation.
“This is a serious lapse,” said a local resident. “How can the police not identify the people who were openly attacking the hotel staff in public?”
The Aggarwal brothers, along with one identified accomplice, Arun Choudhary, have been named in FIR 1/25 under sections related to assault and grievous injury. However, the lack of arrests and the failure to identify all attackers have drawn widespread criticism.
The incident has also brought renewed attention to the controversial history of the Aggarwal family. Rakesh Aggarwal, the father of the accused, was previously linked to the infamous Anara sex scandal, tarnishing the family’s reputation further.
Locals argue that this incident reflects a pattern of misuse of influence and disregard for the law by the Aggarwal family.
Facing mounting public pressure, police officials still assure swift action. “We are committed to bringing the Aggarwal brothers to justice. No one is above the law,” said a senior officer.
Despite these assurances, the public’s patience is wearing thin. Protests and demonstrations are being planned by civil society groups to demand accountability. “This isn’t just about one case,” said a protester. “It’s about ensuring that people in Jammu feel safe and that justice is delivered without bias or delay.”