New Delhi: A viral video from Shimla has sparked significant backlash online after it captured a police officer allegedly kicking a taxi driver during a heated argument. The incident took place on Friday against the backdrop of a VVIP movement, which often leads to stricter traffic enforcement in the hill station. The footage which has been widely shared across social media platforms shows an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) losing his cool during a dispute over parked vehicles.
According to reports, the trouble began when the officer spotted a taxi and a motorcycle parked by the roadside. He reportedly ordered the driver to move both vehicles immediately. The driver, however, explained that he couldn’t physically move both at once and this seemingly logical response led to a verbal spat, with the officer threatening to issue a challan.
The situation took a turn for the worse when the driver started recording the interaction on his mobile phone. In the clip, the driver is seen trying to read the officer’s nameplate to identify him. It was at this moment that the officer identified as ASI Pyar Singh allegedly hit the driver and kicked him. The recording of the physical assault quickly drew attention from the public with many pointing out that the officer’s use of force was completely uncalled for.
This is not cool at all. HP police has tons of respect from me, always been very courteous but this is not ok.
But also there are always 2 sides to a story so let’s see, but given the parking problem here, where does one go?#HimachalPradesh #shimla @himachalpolice pic.twitter.com/7BaYpA1dDX
— Sidharth Shukla (@sidhshuk) May 1, 2026
Strict departmental action follows public outcry
After the video went viral, Shimla Police moved quickly to address the situation. ASP Headquarters Abhishek confirmed that ASI Pyar Singh has been placed under suspension with immediate effect. He stated that the department maintains a “zero tolerance” policy regarding any abuse of authority or professional misconduct by its personnel.
Commitment to professional policing
Beyond the suspension, a formal departmental inquiry has also been launched to investigate the details of the spat. Senior officials have stressed that maintaining public trust is their top priority and that such behaviour does not align with the standards of humane policing. They warned that any officer found guilty of misuse of power or negligence will face strict disciplinary consequences.