A Canadian NRI and US naturalised citizen shared a shocking experience on Reddit. They said they were attacked by a mob while visiting Jalandhar in Punjab. The incident unfolded while they were exploring the area and taking pictures for their painting hobby.
Confrontation Over Photography
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The NRI said a few men approached them and questioned why they were taking pictures. The group then forced them to delete the photos. The NRI stayed calm and removed the images as instructed, hoping to avoid trouble.
Assault After a Sudden Escalation
The tension rose when an older man grabbed the NRI’s phone and held their clothing to restrain them. This drew a crowd that quickly turned aggressive. The NRI said they were held by the neck and arms before being beaten by the gathering mob.
Escape Without Any Help
The NRI managed to slip away and run from the scene to save themselves. They claimed a policeman passed by during the assault and did nothing. The bystanders also stayed silent and did not try to stop the violence.
Fear Rooted in Suspicion
According to the NRI, the attack seemed driven by suspicion toward foreigners, even those of Indian origin. They pointed to recent reports of Pakistani spies being captured in Jalandhar this year, which may have increased local distrust.
Seen as an Outsider Despite Punjabi Roots
The NRI said they were treated as an outsider from the moment the confrontation began. They spoke Punjabi, yet being an NRI separated them from the locals. Their identity, not their behaviour, triggered the mob’s anger.
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