On August 1, 2025, journalist Balvinder Kumar Bhalla was assaulted outside a hotel in Batala by Sub Inspector Mandeep Singh and Surjit Kumar, both commandos from the 5th Battalion of Punjab Police stationed in Bathinda. After Bhalla questioned the officers at the counter, they dragged him outside, beat him publicly on the road, threw him into a pothole, and stomped on his head and back as he lay motionless. The gruesome attack was captured on CCTV and widely reported by the media, sparking outrage in the press and public. An FIR was filed at Batala Civil Lines Police station, and both officers have been arrested and suspended. Such brutal police violence against media professionals highlights deep concerns about police accountability and freedom of the press in Punjab.

HRDA calls on NHRC to take suo moto cognizance under Section 12(a) and to direct an impartial and independent investigation into the attack, ensuring accountability for police violence and protection of journalists.