ASI and biker trade blows at Gwalior crossing after wrong-side stop; video surfaces

An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) and a motorcyclist came to blows in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, after the rider was stopped for riding on the wrong side of the road. The ASI is alleged to have slapped the rider first, and the young man then hit back at the policeman. Questions are being raised about the police's conduct after a video of the incident appeared on social media.

The incident took place two days ago at Station Bajariya crossing, where traffic police personnel were checking people breaking traffic rules. ASI Soneram stopped a motorcyclist who was allegedly going on the wrong side of the road.

An argument is said to have begun between the officer and the young man after he was stopped. The rider is alleged to have started abusing the policemen and, questioning their authority, said their salaries are paid out of public money.

As tempers rose, ASI Soneram allegedly slapped the rider. In response, the young man slapped the officer too, and the matter escalated. Constable Ankit Sharma, who was present, then allegedly picked up a pipe and hit the young man repeatedly. Panic spread at the crossing.

On receiving information, a team from Padav police station reached the spot and intervened. Police took the rider into custody and seized his motorcycle.

According to police, a case has been registered against the young man under the relevant sections, including charges related to obstructing a public servant in the discharge of duty. Further action in the case is continuing.

After the video emerged, questions have been raised about the conduct of the traffic personnel and their response during the confrontation. Driving on the wrong side is a traffic violation and invites legal action, but concern has also been expressed over the use of force by the policemen during the action. An examination of the circumstances of the scuffle and the conduct of those involved is still under way.