Eyewitnesses said the vehicle was being driven recklessly at high speed. When residents objected and attempted to intervene, a confrontation ensued. CCTV footage from the area reportedly shows the SUV swerving uncontrollably and hitting parked cars before coming to a halt.
Police seized the Scorpio, which bore markings reading “Youth Congress State Secretary.”
Manhandled by locals
Angered by the damage and perceived threat to public safety, local residents reportedly caught hold of Thakur and assaulted him before police arrived. Kotwali police reached the spot, dispersed the crowd, and took the accused into custody.
Following the incident, residents gathered at the Kotwali police station late into the night, demanding stringent action. Police said an investigation is underway and that CCTV footage will form a key part of the inquiry.
Kotwali CSP Kesari Nandan Nayak said the accused is being questioned. “Preliminary checks have revealed previous cases against him. Certain illegal items have also been seized. A detailed disclosure will be made after the inquiry,” he said.
Congress denies association
Responding to the controversy, Congress communication department head Sushil Anand Shukla said Rahul Thakur is neither an office-bearer nor a worker of the Congress or its affiliated organisations. “Initial verification has not even established his primary membership,” he said.
Police, however, confirmed that the seized vehicle carried Youth Congress markings. Authorities said the investigation will determine the facts, including the driver’s identity and any organisational links, after examination of evidence and questioning.
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