A tragic late-night road accident in Ludhiana has triggered widespread anger after a 24-year-old migrant worker was killed in an alleged BMW hit-and-run near Phullanwal Chowk. The incident, which occurred around 11:30 pm on Tuesday, has now snowballed into a major protest, with locals accusing the police of shielding the accused driver.
The victim, identified as Laalji Morya, was a native of Uttar Pradesh and worked as a gardener in the city. He lived in Dev Colony near Phullanwal. According to residents, Morya was returning home on his motorcycle when a speeding BMW rammed into him near the busy chowk. The impact was severe, leaving him with critical head injuries. Despite efforts to save him, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Soon after the accident, family members and locals rushed to the spot. Protesters claim they managed to catch the driver and handed him over to the police. However, they allege that the accused was later allowed to leave. According to eyewitness accounts, the driver reportedly identified himself as a lawyer and an influential individual.
By Wednesday morning, anger spilled onto the streets. Large numbers of migrants and residents gathered at Phullanwal Chowk, raising slogans against the police and blocking traffic. The protest brought vehicular movement to a halt, creating long queues during peak hours. Demonstrators accused the authorities of delaying action and attempting to downplay the case.
Protesters further alleged that the BMW involved in the accident was moved to a nearby petrol pump instead of being immediately seized as evidence. They claimed the police initially did not disclose details about the vehicle. After locating the damaged car at a petrol station close to the accident site, locals reportedly brought attention to it and intensified their protest.
Family members also alleged that police officials pressured them to reach a compromise rather than pursue strict legal action. “We will not withdraw our protest until an FIR is registered and the accused is arrested,” one protester said, reflecting the mood of the crowd.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over road safety and the handling of hit-and-run cases in Punjab. Allegations of influence and preferential treatment have added fuel to public outrage, especially among migrant communities who say they often struggle to secure justice.
As the protest continues, all eyes are now on the authorities to respond to the allegations and take appropriate legal action. For the grieving family of Laalji Morya, however, the demand remains simple — accountability and justice.