A violent clash erupted in Ambala as protestors blocked the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway, leaving six police officers, including a DSP, injured during the unrest.

Key Takeaways

  • Violent clashes in Ambala left six police personnel injured, including a DSP.
  • Protestors blocked the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway near Gurdwara Panjokhra Sahib.
  • The unrest was triggered by demands for action against Gursimran Singh Mand.
  • Police used lathicharge and tear gas to clear the highway.

Ambala, Haryana: Chaos erupted on the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway late Thursday evening as a protest by members of the Sikh community turned violent. In the ensuing clash, approximately six police personnel, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), sustained serious injuries while attempting to restore traffic flow.

The protestors were demanding the immediate arrest of Gursimran Singh Mand, the National President of the International Anti-Khalistani Terrorist Front. Mand is allegedly accused of attempting to run over several individuals with his vehicle in a recent incident. The demonstration, centered near Gurdwara Panjokhra Sahib, saw a gathering of nearly 1,600 people.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that such localized protests can rapidly escalate into major law-and-order crises, especially when they target critical infrastructure like national highways, impacting regional logistics and public safety.

The situation escalated sharply after sunset when elements within the crowd began attacking security forces with weapons.

Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal stated that the police initially attempted to negotiate with the protestors. However, as the blockade persisted and stone-pelting began, the police were forced to resort to a lathicharge and tear gas to disperse the crowd and reopen the highway.

Ambala SP Ajit Singh Shekhawat reported that the situation turned particularly dangerous after dark. He alleged that certain individuals in the crowd used spears, swords, and axes to attack the police. Furthermore, protestors reportedly snatched keys from trucks and a gas tanker, creating a high risk of a major accident. "A DSP’s thumb is almost severed," the SP noted, confirming the severity of the injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What were the protestors demanding?
Answer: They were demanding legal action and the arrest of Gursimran Singh Mand for an alleged attempted vehicular assault.

Question 2: Is the highway currently operational?
Answer: Yes, the highway has been cleared by the police and traffic has resumed.

Did You Know?: National Highways like the Delhi-Amritsar route are critical arteries for India's supply chain, and any blockade can have a ripple effect on regional commerce.