NHRC issues notice to Punjab government over assault of a journalist by two police officers

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday (August 18, 2025) issued a notice to the Punjab government over the assault of a journalist by two police officers in the Batala area of Gurdaspur district.

In a video grab of the incident that took place on August 1, the victim could be seen lying motionless as the police personnel walked away after assaulting him.

The accused police officers had been deployed to Batala for security duty. The journalist reportedly asked questions in connection with their presence at the spot, which enraged them, leading to his assault.

Observing that the matter raises serious issues of violation of human rights, the Commission issued a notice to the State Director General of Police calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks. The report is expected to include the status of the investigation and the health of the victim journalist.