Mandi/Shimla, Feb 11,
The Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service Officers Association (HAS Association) has strongly condemned the recent life-threatening attack on Mandi SDM, Om Kant Thakur. The association has urged the state government to take immediate and exemplary action against the perpetrators.
Support Independent Journalism Complete Your Membership
Choose Your Membership
Expressing solidarity, the association’s spokesperson stated that all HAS officers stand firmly with Om Kant Thakur. The spokesperson further highlighted that such incidents in a peaceful state like Himachal Pradesh reflect the growing influence of anti-social elements in society.
The association reiterated that repeated demands for Personal Security Officers (PSOs) for field officers have been made to successive governments. While previous administrations have announced and even notified such provisions, officers continue to work without personal security, exposing them to significant risks.
“This is not the first such incident. Several SDMs have been attacked by unruly elements in the past, yet the government has failed to take concrete steps to ensure the safety of field officers,” the spokesperson added.
The HAS Association has appealed to the government to provide PSOs to all SDMs, ADMs, and ADCs across the state. The association believes this measure will not only help officers tackle disruptive elements more effectively but also strengthen law and order in Himachal Pradesh.
Earlier on Monday evening SDM Mandi Sadar Omkant Thakur was attacked by illegal mining operatives near Bindravani while inspecting illegal sand mining on Monday evening. Two individuals assaulted him, landing blows that resulted in the loss of a tooth.
The attack occurred when SDM Thakur, acting on a tip-off, reached the Beas River without police backup to investigate illegal sand mining. As he tried to stop the activity, two intoxicated assailants launched a physical assault. His driver intervened, preventing a more severe attack, and managed to inform the police in time.
