Lalru, India – A local dhaba owner is currently fighting for his life following a brutal assault involving a group of men at his restaurant in the village of Mamauli on Sunday evening. Identified as 32-year-old Dalwinder Singh, the victim sustained severe head injuries after being attacked with a baseball bat and an ax-like weapon, authorities reported.
The incident, which occurred around 10 p.m. at Pardhan Dhaba, was initially sparked by a dispute over parking. According to police reports, the confrontation began when a tempo truck, driven by Kulbir Singh, was parked outside the dhaba. When a dhaba employee requested the vehicle be moved and asked for a parking fee, it escalated into a heated exchange.
The altercation turned violent when Kulbir, also known as Kaka, returned with additional men and launched an attack on Dalwinder, dragging him from his office before striking him with the weapons. Despite the presence of shocked employees and customers, no one intervened during the assault.
Police were quick to respond following the attack, with the help of CCTV footage capturing the event, leading to the swift arrest of Kulbir Singh. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the incident, identified as Karamjit, Gurjinder, Gagandeep, and Ramandeep.
As Dalwinder battles for his life in a local private hospital, the community has expressed outrage and concern over the incident. Manpreet Singh, the superintendent of police for Rural, emphasized that authorities would not tolerate such acts of violence and assured that the remaining culprits would soon be detained.
In a move showing local solidarity, Avtar Singh, the village sarpanch, has voiced a strong stance against any potential leniency by law enforcement. He has threatened to organize a road blockade should there be any indications of police inaction.
Legal proceedings have started against all assailants, charging them with attempt to murder and various other offenses, reflecting the severity of the assault. These charges were lodged at Lalru police station based on statements provided by Dalwinder’s brother, Kulwinder Singh.
Dalwinder, who has been managing the dhaba on a lease since the previous year, is known in the community for his efforts to maintain a peaceful and welcoming eatery environment. This violent outbreak has not only left his family and friends in distress but has also stirred fears among local business owners about the rising aggression in disputes.
Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the attack and monitor Dalwinder’s condition, signaling a tense period ahead for this ordinarily tranquil village. The incident has spotlighted the urgent need for more stringent measures to curb such violent confrontations and ensure safety in public spaces.