Tensions escalated in Chandigarh as protesters marched towards the Raj Bhavan demanding the release of Sikh prisoners. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd.

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Key Takeaways

  • Komi Insaf Morcha marched towards the Punjab Raj Bhavan demanding the release of Sikh detainees.
  • Chandigarh Police used tear gas shells and water cannons to control the unrest.
  • Former MP Simranjit Singh Mann was detained after attempting to enter the area disguised as an injured patient.
  • Clashes included stone-pelting by protesters and heavy police barricading.

Chandigarh: A situation of intense tension erupted in Chandigarh on Saturday as members of the Komi Insaf Morcha marched towards the Punjab Raj Bhavan. The protesters were demanding the immediate release of several Sikh prisoners held in various jails. To prevent the marchers from reaching the Governor's residence, the Chandigarh Police deployed water cannons and fired tear gas shells.

Dramatic Arrest of Simranjit Singh Mann

In a surprising turn of events, former MP and Shiromani Akali Dal leader Simranjit Singh Mann attempted to bypass the heavy security by disguising himself as an injured patient. Wearing bandages around his face, he arrived in a vehicle near the Raj Bhavan. However, vigilant police officers grew suspicious, intercepted the vehicle, and detained him upon identifying him.

The Core Demands

The protesters are seeking the release of high-profile Sikh prisoners, including Jagtar Singh Hawara, Balwant Singh Rajoana, Jagtar Singh Tara, and Paramjit Singh Bhiora. The organizations leading the protest claim that these individuals have already completed their sentences and should be released immediately, a claim that remains a point of legal contention.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident highlights the deep-seated socio-political friction in the Punjab region. The demand for the release of these specific individuals is not just a legal matter but a significant emotive issue that resonates with a large section of the community, making it a volatile political tool.

The escalation of violence in a high-security zone like the Raj Bhavan indicates a growing gap between state authority and grassroots protest movements.
Did You Know?: The Komi Insaf Morcha has been holding a continuous protest at the Mohali-Chandigarh border for approximately three years.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are the prisoners being demanded for release?
The protesters are demanding the release of Jagtar Singh Hawara, Balwant Singh Rajoana, Jagtar Singh Tara, and others.

2. How did the police respond to the protest?
The police used barricades, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the protesters and prevent them from reaching the Raj Bhavan.