BY OUR STAFF REPORTER
ROORKEE, 10 May: A heated dispute between former MLA Pranav Singh Champion and Khanpur MLA Umesh Kumar has led to police registering cases against both leaders following a clash near Solani Bridge on Roorkee-Laksar Road on Friday
Champion’s driver has filed a complaint against Umesh Kumar under the SC/ST Act, alleging vandalism, assault, abuse, and threats to kill. Meanwhile, Kumar’s side has also lodged a case against Champion, accusing him of hitting his car, damaging it with sticks and rods, and issuing threats.
SP Rural Shekhar Chand Suyal confirmed that investigations into the allegations from both sides have begun. The incident occurred on Friday evening around 3:30 pm when the vehicles of both leaders reportedly collided, leading to a confrontation between their supporters. By the time police arrived, both the parties had left the scene.
Following the altercation, Kumar filed a complaint at Laksar police station in Haridwar district, while Champion registered his case at Manglaur police station. On Champion’s driver’s complaint, a case has been filed against Kumar under the SC/ST Act and other sections.
Kumar alleges that while he was travelling from Laksar, Champion’s Fortuner overtook his vehicle at high speed, causing his car to lose balance. Shortly after, a Scorpio following the Fortuner collided with Kumar’s vehicle while attempting to avoid a dumper. Kumar claims his car suffered significant damage and asserts that Champion was seated in the Fortuner’s front seat.
The dispute reportedly continued until Landhaura, where Kumar attempted to stop both vehicles. He has urged police to review CCTV footage to determine who was responsible for the altercation. Laksar Kotwali in-charge Rajiv Rodhan confirmed that a case has been registered against eight individuals, including Champion.
Champion, in his statement, has accused Kumar of using vehicles with “Police” markings despite being a legislator. He has included this allegation in his complaint.
This incident follows previous tensions between the two leaders. Earlier this year, their rivalry escalated into a firing incident, leading to police intervention and judicial custody for Champion. The political feud continues to stir controversy in Uttarakhand, with authorities closely monitoring the situation.
