Midnight Clash at Una Hotel Turns Deadly, Sparks Fresh Concerns Over Law and Order
What began as two birthday celebrations at Raizada Hotel in Una’s Lal Singhi ended in tragedy when a midnight confrontation spiraled into violence, leaving Youth Congress leader Ashu Puri dead and two others critically injured.
According to police, the altercation broke out around 12 am in the hotel’s parking area as guests from both parties were dispersing. Heated words quickly escalated into a physical fight, during which one of the men, Parvinder, allegedly pulled out a firearm and opened fire. Puri, a Santokhgarh resident known for his mining work and political involvement, was struck twice and succumbed to his injuries soon after. Parvinder and another man, Purender, also sustained serious injuries and were rushed to PGI Chandigarh in critical condition.
Police have registered cases of murder and attempted murder, while forensic teams and CCTV footage are being examined to piece together the chain of events. SHO Una Gaurav Bhardwaj confirmed that investigators are still probing the exact provocation behind the deadly clash.
The incident has triggered strong political reactions. Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur described it as part of a “disturbing spike in gangwar-like incidents,” fueling debate over policing strength and public safety in Himachal’s semi-urban pockets.
Locals, meanwhile, are shaken. Residents voiced alarm over the use of firearms in civilian disputes and called for stricter monitoring of late-night gatherings at hotels and banquet halls. Puri’s post-mortem is scheduled in Una, as police continue to record witness statements and warn that more arrests may follow.
This shocking episode has reignited public anxiety over rising street-level crime in Himachal Pradesh, underscoring the urgent need for stronger preventive measures to keep communities safe.
Further reports are awaited on this story.
