14 Aug 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : A viral video showing a man allegedly assaulting a woman beggar outside the Mata Shri Bhadrakali Temple in Kapurthala, Punjab, has sparked widespread outrage. Police have registered an FIR following the incident.
Woman Allegedly Beaten Outside Temple
The video appears to show a man removing his slippers and repeatedly hitting the woman while she was sitting outside the temple with children.
When the woman tried to stop him, the man allegedly continued the assault. A crowd later intervened as the situation escalated.
What Triggered the Assault?
According to the preliminary account cited by police, the accused, who reportedly runs a shop opposite the temple, became angry after children accompanying the woman were accused of tampering with his motorcycle.
The woman has reportedly not filed a complaint herself.
Police Register FIR
Following the video’s circulation on social media, the Women’s Commission and Human Rights Core Committee sought action.
Police took suo motu cognisance of the video and registered an FIR. DSP Sheetal Singh said the man seen in the video was identified as Vikas Sharma, and police teams were conducting raids to arrest him.
Video Sparks Public Outrage
The footage has triggered strong condemnation, with people questioning the use of violence against a vulnerable woman and calling for swift legal action.
The case also highlights the importance of allowing authorities to establish the complete circumstances rather than relying solely on viral footage.
Investigation Continues
Police are continuing to investigate the incident and establish the full sequence of events.
The allegations against the accused remain subject to the investigation and legal process.