Chandigarh: The Punjab Police have been instructed to maintain respectful and professional conduct on roads after a vehicle escorting a VIP allegedly hit the car of retired Lieutenant General D S Hooda, who led the 2016 surgical strikes, on Wednesday.

The incident occurred on the Zirakpur flyover in Mohali while Lt Gen Hooda was travelling with his wife. Hooda alleged that the police escort vehicle deliberately collided with his car, calling the act “deliberate” and seeking the attention of both Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav.

In response, DGP Yadav issued immediate directions emphasizing the need for disciplined and courteous behaviour by all police personnel involved in VIP escorts. In a statement shared on X, Yadav highlighted that Punjab Police is a professional force with a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct. He stressed that the duty of police personnel extends beyond the protection of VIPs to upholding public dignity, safety, and confidence on the roads.

“VIP protection is a high-responsibility assignment demanding discipline, patience, and respect for citizens. Strong security apparatus and respectful conduct must go hand in hand,” Yadav said. He outlined specific instructions for compliance, including adherence to traffic rules during non-emergency movements, ensuring minimal disruption to public traffic, and exercising utmost patience and restraint at all times.

The DGP also directed that all incidents must be promptly reported to the concerned quarters by the escort in-charge. Additionally, mandatory briefings on professional and courteous conduct for escort, pilot, and traffic staff are to be conducted within 48 hours across all districts.

Following the incident, Hooda expressed his concern on X, stating that “the arrogance and impunity of someone who is supposed to be a guardian of law soils the uniform and reputation of the organisation.” He underscored that such behaviour tarnishes the image of the police force.

DGP Yadav later conveyed regret over the distress caused to Lt Gen Hooda and his wife, stating that any misconduct, if established, would be “completely unacceptable and contrary to the values of professionalism and public service that Punjab Police stands for.”

He further confirmed that directions had been issued to identify the vehicles and personnel involved and assured that the matter was being taken seriously. Appropriate action will be initiated to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence of such incidents.

Lt Gen Hooda, a former Northern Army Commander, oversaw the 2016 surgical strikes on terror launch pads in PoK following the Uri terror attack, and his complaint has drawn attention to the conduct of police during VIP escort duties in Punjab.

The Punjab Police, through these directives, aim to reinforce the principles of professionalism, public safety, and courteous conduct while balancing the responsibilities of VIP protection.