Gen hooda urges Punjab police to take serious action after a police escort vehicle deliberately collided with his car on the Zirakpur-Ambala highway. The former Northern Army Commander, Lieutenant General D S Hooda (retd), shared his concerns on social media, requesting Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav to address the matter properly. Moreover, he emphasized that the driver’s behavior was provocative and dangerous, not merely accidental.

The incident occurred on the busy Zirakpur flyover, a critical traffic corridor in Punjab. General Hooda was driving with his wife when two Punjab Police jeeps escorting a VIP approached from behind. Consequently, he slowed down to allow the first vehicle to pass safely. However, heavy traffic created a brief gap, which apparently frustrated the second escort driver.

The rear escort jeep overtook from the left side aggressively. Then, it sharply cut right, deliberately hitting the front of General Hooda’s car before speeding away. “Angered, the rear escort jeep, while overtaking from the left, deliberately cut sharply right, hitting the front of my car and then sped off,” General Hooda explained. This reckless action endangered both passengers and showed complete disregard for road safety.

On Friday, General Hooda posted another message on social media. He stated, “I met your two extremely professional and courteous officers yesterday. My only request is to not underplay the deliberately provocative behaviour of the driver.” Furthermore, he made clear this would be his final public communication on the matter, expecting appropriate action from authorities.

Punjab Police officials responded quickly to the complaint. Special DGP (Traffic & Road Safety) Amardeep Singh Rai confirmed that authorities had identified the escort vehicle and personnel involved. Additionally, he announced that a thorough inquiry had begun immediately. The department takes such incidents seriously to maintain public trust.

Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from the Zirakpur flyover to understand what happened. The footage revealed that heavy traffic had created a gap between General Hooda’s car and the escort convoy. Meanwhile, when the police vehicle attempted to close this gap, it made contact with General Hooda’s car. However, the manner of contact suggested deliberate aggressive driving rather than accidental bumping.

Authorities issued a show-cause notice to the police personnel involved in the incident. This disciplinary action demonstrates the department’s commitment to maintaining professional standards. Moreover, it sends a message that aggressive driving by police officers will face consequences. DGP Rai assured the public that traffic discipline violations would be handled seriously regardless of who commits them.

Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav issued comprehensive guidelines to all police personnel regarding road conduct. He emphasized that officers must demonstrate courtesy, patience, and restraint while performing duties. Additionally, he stressed that VIP escorts should never endanger public safety. These directives aim to prevent similar incidents in the future.

DGP Yadav expressed sincere regret for the distress caused to General Hooda and his wife. “Such behaviour, if established, is completely unacceptable and contrary to the values of professionalism and public service that Punjab Police stands for,” he stated. Furthermore, he committed to ensuring stricter adherence to safety protocols during VIP movements.

The Zirakpur-Ambala highway frequently experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. VIP escorts often navigate this route, creating additional challenges for regular commuters. Therefore, police drivers must exercise extra caution and patience. Aggressive driving by law enforcement officers sets a dangerous precedent for other road users.

Road safety experts emphasize that police vehicles should model exemplary behavior. When officers display reckless driving, it undermines public confidence in law enforcement. Moreover, it encourages ordinary drivers to violate traffic rules, believing authorities themselves don’t follow regulations. Consequently, maintaining discipline within police ranks becomes crucial for overall road safety.

General Hooda highlighted that the incident damaged his vehicle and endangered lives. He specifically mentioned Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and DGP Yadav, hoping they would ensure stricter enforcement of road safety norms. Additionally, he stressed that professional conduct should apply equally to all drivers, regardless of their official status.

Chandigarh and surrounding areas consistently rank among India’s most livable cities. However, incidents like this serve as important reminders that safety requires constant vigilance. Therefore, authorities must continuously improve traffic management and enforcement. Regular training programs for police drivers could prevent such aggressive behavior.

VIP culture in India often creates problems on roads. Escort vehicles sometimes believe they have absolute priority, leading to dangerous driving. Nevertheless, no VIP’s convenience justifies endangering innocent citizens. Therefore, policymakers should reconsider VIP movement protocols to balance security needs with public safety.

Fortunately, General Hooda and his wife escaped without physical injuries. However, the psychological impact and vehicle damage cannot be ignored. Moreover, this incident raises questions about accountability when police officers themselves violate traffic laws. The investigation’s outcome will test Punjab Police’s commitment to justice and transparency.

In conclusion, Gen hooda urges Punjab police to address aggressive escort driving seriously. Through proper investigation, disciplinary action, and improved training, authorities can prevent future incidents. Ultimately, everyone deserves safe roads where law enforcement protects rather than endangers citizens.

Daily News