Himachal Police Act After Viral Video of Alleged Extortion at Checkpoint

A viral video has triggered an investigation into alleged misconduct by a police official at a checkpoint in Dehra, Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The footage purportedly shows an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) demanding what is colloquially referred to as 'mouth sweetening'—a request for a gift or offering—from tourists visiting from Haryana during a routine vehicle check.

The video drew immediate attention from senior police officials, prompting SP Dehra to summon the ASI for questioning. The incident has raised concerns about professional conduct at security checkpoints in the region, where tourists are frequently subject to vehicle inspections.

Following the emergence of the video, the SP has initiated a formal inquiry into the matter. The investigation has been assigned to SDPO Dadasiba with instructions to conduct a fair and impartial probe. The move underscores the police department's commitment to maintaining professional standards and public confidence in law enforcement.

The exact nature of the ASI's remarks and the tourists' account of the interaction remain subjects of the ongoing investigation. Police officials have not made detailed statements regarding the incident or the specific allegations against the officer.