Drunken Driver Kills Traffic Police Constable in Panchkula

Strategic Insights -

A 34-year-old traffic police constable, Deepak, was killed late Saturday night when a container truck allegedly sped through a drunken driving checkpoint near the Chandimandir Toll Plaza in Panchkula. The driver, identified as Dharmender, 50, from Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested after a dramatic chase by the police. The incident highlights the dangers of drunken driving and the bravery of the police officers who risk their lives to keep the roads safe.

Key Takeaways:

  • Deepak, a 34-year-old traffic police constable, was killed instantly when a container truck crashed into him at a drunken driving checkpoint in Panchkula.
  • The driver, Dharmender, 50, from Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested after a dramatic chase by the police, who suspect he was driving under the influence.
  • The incident occurred near the Chandimandir Toll Plaza, where police set up a checkpoint to deter drunken driving.
  • ESI Somnath, leading the checkpoint, was able to save himself from being hit by the truck but witnessed Deepak being crushed under the wheels.
  • The container truck also hit a Punjab-registered car that the constable was checking, but the family inside managed to escape.
  • Dharmender tried to flee on foot but was stopped by ESI Somnath, who brandished his revolver.
  • A case has been registered against the driver under Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Chandimandir police station.
  • The truck has been seized, and the driver will be produced in a local court on Monday.
  • Deepak is survived by his wife and two children, a 6-year-old daughter and a 10-month-old son.

Statistics:

  • At least six to seven drunken driving challans were issued every night at the Chandimandir Toll Plaza, where the incident occurred.
  • The container truck was traveling from the Nalagarh side, and the driver allegedly switched off his headlights to avoid being chased.
  • The incident occurred at approximately 11:50 pm on Saturday, and the driver was arrested at around 3:30 am on Sunday.
  • The driver's age and physical condition at the time of the incident are yet to be confirmed.

Sources:

  • HT Chandigarh