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August 7, 2025 – India –
A distressing video captured in Batala, Punjab, shows two Punjab Police commandos brutally assaulting journalist Balwinder Kumar Bhalla, also known as Balvinder Singh. As he approached them to ask questions about their duty, one officer, clad in uniform, and another in plain clothes, grabbed him, delivering repeated punches and kicks. The attack continued even after Bhalla collapsed into a street puddle, with one officer mercilessly kicking him in the head, leaving him unconscious before walking away.
In response to widespread public outrage and the viral video, authorities took immediate action. On August 9, both officers identified as Sub-Inspectors Surjit and Mandeep Singh of the 5th Battalion of Punjab Police Commandos, based in Bathinda, were suspended, and an official inquiry was launched. An FIR was registered the following day by DSP Sanjeev Kumar. The complaint stated that the officers had been assigned to Batala for security duties on Independence Day when the journalist’s question allegedly sparked the physical confrontation.
The incident sparked intense criticism from press freedom advocates, who condemned the attack as a grave violation of journalistic safety and a misuse of police power. The assault, captured on video, highlighted the vulnerability of media professionals in public spaces, even when performing routine reporting. In the footage, passersby are seen witnessing the assault without intervening,
The Punjab Police’s swift disciplinary action, suspension and launch of an inquiry have been seen as a necessary but minimal first step. Observers urge a transparent and thorough investigation not only into the assault itself but also into the broader practices around police accountability when faced with media scrutiny.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists in India and underscores the need for clear protections that ensure media professionals can perform their duty without fear of violence, even from law enforcement.
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