Una murder CCTV footage goes viral, DC warns of action

CCTV footage showing the killing of a youth from Santoshgarh in Una district went viral on social media on Monday, sparking outrage and raising questions over how the sensitive video was leaked. The incident occurred in the parking area of a hotel in Una city during the night intervening November 19 and 20, when a late-night party among a group of youths escalated into a violent clash.

According to the FIR, the altercation turned deadly well past midnight as swords were used and multiple gunshots were fired from a small-calibre weapon. Ashu Puri, the victim, died on the spot, while Parminder and Purjinder, alias Pintu, both from Udaipur village in Una subdivision, sustained grievous injuries. The two are currently undergoing treatment at PGI-Chandigarh, where their condition is stated to be serious.

Police reportedly seized the CCTV footage soon after the incident. However, the leaked video began circulating widely on social media, prompting concerns about potential interference with the investigation. Una SP Amit Yadav said the source of the leak is being investigated and assured strict departmental action. “If any police personnel are found involved in leaking the footage, they will be immediately suspended,” he said.

Taking cognizance of the situation, Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal issued orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), directing the public to delete and refrain from sharing any video, reels, posts or multimedia content related to the incident. The order states that such content may incite fear, panic, disturb public tranquility and potentially compromise the ongoing investigation.

The DC cautioned that any violation would invite stringent action under relevant BNS provisions. He also instructed that strict disciplinary action be taken against any police personnel responsible for leaking the footage.

The police continue to probe the sequence of events, identify all individuals involved in the brawl and determine the exact circumstances leading to the fatal shooting.