Punjab Bandh Today: A Punjab-wide strike has been called today days after the brutal killing of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa district. Bhim Singh, the deceased's father, has urged the people across the communities and political parties to participate in the strike. While there is a rain alert for multiple districts, Singh has urged the citizens to take part despite the challenges.
State-Wide Strike Called
Earlier, a state-wide strike was called to protest Jhota's murder and an alleged poor law and order in Punjab. The call has been supported by all the leading opposition parties, including Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Apart from this, the farmer-labor organizations, trade unions, and the School Van Operators Association have also demanded justice for the activist.
As per the reports, sit-ins and demonstrations have been planned in multiple cities, such as Jalandhar, Amritsar, Mohali, and Chandigarh. The effect of strike was seen in several parts of the state as shops and highways remained closed in a few districts. Apart from this, the schools have also been directed to operate in online mode to ensure safety, reported Jagran.
Supporters Demand Action
Earlier on Wednesday, a local mob set the accused's shop on fire during the demolition drive, further demanding a solid action into the matter. While the authorities successfully arrested the accused within 24 hours from Rajasthan's Salasar, the strike was not called off by the protesters. The administration also demolished the house and shop of medical store owner Ashwani Kumar, accused of murder.
Family Seeks Action
While the state police stated that a detailed probe is underway, Jhota's family members have refused to perform his last rites until any action is taken against the accused. Earlier, Bhim Singh announced that the demonstrations will be held between 6 am and 5 pm.
Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon slammed the state government, alleging that law and order has collapsed under the AAP government. He also demanded a high-level investigation by the Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) into the matter. The assembly election in Punjab is scheduled to be conducted in the early months of 2027.