TNR News Network
Kullu:
The Himachal Pradesh Police have arrested seven Devlu (deity representatives) from the Manikaran valley for allegedly assaulting Kullu Tehsildar Hari Singh Yadav during the recent International Kullu Dussehra festival.
The arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation into the scuffle that took place on the very first day of the Dussehra celebrations. However, the arrested individuals were later released on notice, with the police directing them to remain available for investigation and not to leave the district without permission.
Police investigation gathers pace
According to police sources, the investigation has picked up speed. On Monday, the police questioned two to three more Devlus, adding to a growing list of those already interrogated. The police have been identifying suspects based on viral video footage of the incident. As individuals are identified, they are being summoned to the Kullu police station for questioning.
Kullu Superintendent of Police Karthikeyan Gokulachandran has handed over the investigation to Anni Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) to ensure impartiality. The authorities have also indicated that more people may be called in for questioning as the probe continues.
Controversy over entering deity’s tent with shoes
The controversy broke out during Dussehra celebrations when Tehsildar Hari Singh, who was on official duty, allegedly entered a deity’s temporary tent wearing shoes, which is considered disrespectful by locals. This act reportedly angered the Devlu representatives.
According to reports, the Devlus allegedly dragged the tehsildar to the deity’s tent where he was allegedly mistreated. The video of this incident went viral, sparking outrage among revenue officials and leading to widespread condemnation.
The incident drew strong reactions from the Revenue Officers’ Association, whose delegation met with Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tiwari on Monday at the Police Headquarters. The delegation demanded strict and swift action against those responsible for the “misbehaviour and manhandling” of a government official on duty.
The DGP assured the delegation that the police are treating the matter seriously and that a fair and unbiased investigation is underway. He confirmed that seven accused have been arrested so far, and further action will be taken based on the findings of the ongoing inquiry.
The association’s delegation included president Naresh Singh Verma (Tehsildar, Junga), general secretary Vipin Verma (Arki), executive members Vivek Negi (Theog) and Rajesh Jaryal (Tehsildar, Thural), along with adviser Sanjeet Sharma (District Revenue Officer, Shimla).
Following the DGP’s assurance, the Revenue Officers’ Association announced that all revenue officials would resume their duties from Tuesday, ending the brief symbolic protest that followed the incident.
