A minor grievance over a plate of food turned into something far more serious in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district. At a cafe in the Bhawarna area of Palampur, an argument over the taste of paneer escalated to the point where shots were fired, sending people running out of the cafe to save themselves. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the entire episode.
How the Trouble Began
The incident took place at a cafe in Mansimbal panchayat of Bhawarna, where the mood suddenly soured on Saturday night. According to the information available, the trigger was remarkably trivial — there was too much salt in the paneer that had been served. Two young men took the complaint to the cafe owner, Padam Dev.
The matter did not stay confined to words. It is alleged that the three then got into a scuffle and the owner slapped one of the youths, after which the dispute flared up further.
Relative Arrives With a Pistol and Opens Fire
As the situation worsened, a relative of the cafe owner reached the spot carrying a pistol and opened fire. The moment the gunshots rang out, panic gripped the cafe and those present rushed outside to save their lives, creating a stampede-like situation.
It is further alleged that the youths were then forcibly held back at gunpoint. Three people, including the cafe owner and his relative, continued to assault them while brandishing the pistol. On top of this, when another person came to rescue one of the youths, he too was taken hostage.
How Police Were Alerted
As soon as word of the incident spread, Zila Parishad member Sanjeev Saini informed the police, after which the Bhawarna police arrived at the scene. Both parties were later taken to the police station and the injured were given a medical examination.
CCTV Footage Deleted, Pistol With Expired Licence Recovered
It is being reported that the cafe's CCTV footage was deleted in an attempt to destroy evidence. Kangra AASP Bir Bahadur told the media that the pistol used in the incident has been recovered and that its licence had already expired. Police are currently investigating the matter from every angle.
