Pathankot: A furniture trader in Punjab’s Pathankot was allegedly attacked with weapons after asking for payment of outstanding dues. The accused allegedly lured the merchant downstairs under the pretext of clearing the pending amount as part of a premeditated plan. The trader sustained severe head injuries during the assault. The entire incident was captured on the shop’s CCTV cameras, showing the accused carrying out the attack.
Merchant Says Furniture Was Repaired Twice Before Seeking Payment
Anuj Chhabra, the furniture merchant who is currently undergoing treatment at the hospital, said that a local resident had purchased furniture from him about one and a half years ago. According to him, the furniture later developed some technical issues, which he repaired twice as part of his responsibility as a merchant.
He alleged that when he asked for the outstanding payment after completing the repairs, the customer began making excuses and resorted to verbal abuse.
Earlier Public Dispute Alleged
According to Anuj, around six months ago, the same individuals allegedly misbehaved with him publicly at a restaurant. However, he chose not to pursue the matter at the time to avoid disturbing the city’s atmosphere and the business environment.
Allegedly Lured Downstairs Before Attack
Anuj Chhabra said the incident took place on Friday night when the main accused called him, claiming he had come to pay the outstanding amount and asked him to come downstairs.
As soon as he reached the spot to collect the payment, the accused, who were allegedly already waiting with weapons, attacked him without giving him an opportunity to react.
Head Hit With Sharp Weapon, Victim Slammed to the Ground
According to the victim, the main accused grabbed him tightly from behind with both hands while his accomplices allegedly struck him on the head with a sharp weapon.
The blow caused a deep head injury, leading to heavy bleeding. As he fell, the accused allegedly continued the assault by slamming him to the ground, causing serious injuries to his knees and other parts of his body.
Victim Undergoing Treatment, Police Investigating
Anuj Chhabra was immediately admitted to the Civil Hospital in Pathankot, where doctors are treating him. He required stitches for the deep head injury.
The incident has sparked anger among traders in Pathankot. The victim has submitted a written complaint to the police, seeking strict action against the accused.
He has appealed to the Pathankot Police, the district administration and the traders’ association for protection, urging the immediate arrest of those involved.
Police from Police Station Division No. 1 have launched an investigation into the incident.