Lt General’s car hit by VIP escort

A VIP escort vehicle hit the car of Lt General DS Hooda (retd) and sped away on the flyover here today.

Sharing details about the incident on “X”, the Army veteran said the incident took place around 4 pm when he was travelling with his wife. Two Punjab Police jeeps escorting a VIP towards Ambala came from behind, with their sirens blaring. He slowed the vehicle to let the first vehicle pass, but the VIP car could not overtake him amid heavy traffic.

“Angered, the rear escort jeep, while overtaking from the left, deliberately cut sharply right, hitting the front of my car and then sped off. It was clearly a deliberate act, not only damaging the car, but with no concern of our personal safety on a very crowded road. The arrogance and impunity of someone who is supposed to be a guardian of law soils the uniform and reputation of the organisation. Hope Bhagwant Mann and DGP Punjab Police take note,” he further added.

Zirakpur Assistant Superintendent of Police Ghazalpreet Kaur said, “He has informed us about the incident telephonically and we have taken note of his social media post. The police are working on it. By tomorrow, we will have the CCTV footage and action will be taken in the matter. We have assured him.”

Hooda, 69, is the former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army’s Northern Command.

DGP Yadav replies

Meanwhile, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav replied, "We deeply regret the distress and concern caused to you and your wife due to this unfortunate incident. Such behaviour, if established, is completely unacceptable and contrary to the values of professionalism and public service that Punjab Police stands for. I have personally discussed the matter with Special DGP (Traffic) AS Rai, and directions have been issued to identify the vehicles and personnel involved. Please be assured that the matter is being taken seriously and appropriate action will be initiated to ensure accountability."