Delhi-Srinagar bus attacked in Haryana after parking dispute

What happened on the Delhi-Srinagar highway

A passenger sleeper bus travelling from Delhi to Srinagar was targeted with stones and bricks at a roadside eatery near Karnal in Haryana late on Saturday night, shattering window panes and leaving an elderly passenger with minor glass injuries.

The incident occurred at around 10:30 pm on 17 October when the Star World Ventures bus, carrying between 35 and 40 passengers, stopped for a dinner break at the Divine Star eatery in Nilokheri, along the highway.

According to the driver, Waqar, an argument broke out shortly after he pulled into the parking lot. An occupant of a local car parked nearby objected to the vehicle being parked there and demanded its immediate removal. The verbal confrontation quickly escalated, leading to stones and bricks being thrown at the bus.

How authorities responded

Haryana Police acted swiftly to establish control and clarify the circumstances surrounding the altercation. Investigating officers identified two local youths, Mohit and Sawan from Yunispura village, in connection with the row.

Preliminary police assessments confirmed that the altercation was triggered purely by a dispute over parking space and giving way on the premises. Officials confirmed that both sides had consumed alcohol prior to the argument, dismissing claims of any targeted or communal motive. Butana SHO Vipin Kumar stated that law enforcement took suo motu cognisance of the matter despite no formal complaint being lodged immediately by the passengers, bringing suspects in for questioning and initiating legal proceedings.

Officials further confirmed that the youths agreed to compensate the bus operator for the damage caused to the vehicle. The bus resumed its onward journey to Srinagar shortly after the situation was contained.

Official statements and state coordination

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah contacted the Haryana administration to ensure the safety of inter-state commuters and request prompt measures against those involved.

Speaking on the matter, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah noted that the Haryana government gave immediate assurances that prompt and stringent legal action would be taken. Abdullah stated on social media that the Jammu and Kashmir government stands with the affected passengers and is closely monitoring the situation, expressing confidence in the law enforcement process.

Representatives from the Haryana administration reaffirmed that inter-state transit routes remain completely secure, emphasizing that strict action will be enforced against any form of public hooliganism on state highways.