Manali or Pakistan? Tourist’s viral video sparks outrage & probe

A viral video posted by a tourist, who controversially compared Manali’s security situation to that of Pakistan, has sparked sharp backlash from local residents and tourism stakeholders. In the video, the tourist urges viewers to either avoid visiting the popular hill destination or to come armed. He alleged that his wife—holding their four-month-old daughter—and his brother were assaulted near Mission Road parking, while bystanders and the local police failed to intervene.

According to the police, a case was promptly registered under Sections 126(2), 115(2), 352, 351(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) based on a complaint filed by the tourist, identified as Pradeep, a 35-year-old resident of Mahendragarh, Haryana. Pradeep said unidentified individuals attacked them and issued threats to their lives. Manali DSP KD Sharma confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway.

The video has since drawn severe criticism from local stakeholders, particularly those associated with the tourism sector. Manohar, a long-time resident, called the tourist’s remarks inflammatory and harmful, arguing that advocating the use of weapons in a peaceful tourist town could have dangerous consequences.

Hotelier Krishan echoed this sentiment, urging tourism associations to file formal complaints against the tourist for defaming Manali and potentially discouraging future visitors.

Sanjeev, another local, highlighted recurring tensions between tourists and residents. He recounted past instances where visitors from Punjab and Haryana had allegedly brought firearms and engaged in physical altercations. These frequent incidents, he said, had already compelled the state police to impose strict restrictions on individuals entering Himachal Pradesh with weapons.

Local resident Ashok demanded stern action against the tourist for inciting fear and harming Manali’s image. He emphasised that many confrontations stem from tourists attempting to take the law into their own hands, and urged for greater efforts to counter the spread of inflammatory and misleading videos on social media.

This controversy has reignited discussions about the influence of viral content and the challenges of balancing public perception with ground realities. With Manali’s economy heavily reliant on tourism, stakeholders have called for robust measures to combat misinformation and restore confidence among prospective visitors.