Himachal Government Takes Strict Stand on Attacks on HRTC Buses in Punjab
Munish Sood
Mandi : The Himachal Pradesh government has taken a firm stand regarding the attacks on HRTC buses in Punjab. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has issued a strong statement on the matter, declaring that until the safety of HRTC buses is ensured in Punjab, 600 buses will not halt there. He also clarified that Himachal buses will no longer be parked at Punjab bus stations.
Mukesh Agnihotri stated that discussions have been held with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann regarding this issue. Additionally, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Himachal Pradesh has also discussed the matter with Punjab’s DGP.
The state government has decided to raise this issue with the central government. He emphasized that ensuring the safety of buses, especially passengers, drivers, and conductors, is their top priority.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has also commented on the matter. He stated that incidents of vandalism against Himachal buses have taken place in Punjab, and he has discussed the issue with Punjab’s Chief Minister.
He assured that a solution will be found soon to ensure passenger safety and prevent such incidents from recurring.
Series of Attacks on HRTC Buses
The suspension of bus services comes in response to multiple incidents:
• March 18, 2025: An HRTC bus on the Chandigarh-Hamirpur route was attacked near Kharar, Punjab. Assailants armed with sticks and rods shattered the windshield and several windows, creating panic among passengers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
• March 22, 2025: At the Amritsar bus stand in Punjab, six HRTC buses were vandalized. Attackers broke windows and defaced the vehicles with objectionable slogans, escalating fears among passengers and crew.
Possible Triggers Behind the Attacks
The violence appears to be linked to a controversy over posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a figure associated with the Khalistan movement. Himachal Pradesh authorities recently removed flags bearing Bhindranwale’s image from vehicles entering the state, leading to discontent among certain groups in Punjab. In retaliation, attacks on HRTC buses were carried out.
Government Response and Action
Himachal Pradesh :
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has engaged in discussions with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking assurances for the safety of HRTC buses. Despite these talks, the Himachal government decided to suspend bus services to protect passengers and staff.
Punjab:
Authorities have arrested individuals suspected of involvement in the attacks. Investigations are ongoing to prevent further incidents and restore normalcy.
Impact on Commuters
The suspension of 600 HRTC buses has severely disrupted travel for thousands of daily commuters, including students, workers, and tourists. Many are now struggling to find alternative transportation, leading to overcrowding and increased demand on other services.
The Himachal Pradesh government’s decision highlights the seriousness of the situation and its commitment to passenger safety. Both state governments must work together to address the root causes of this unrest, restore law and order, and ensure safe public transportation between the two states.
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