33 police officers were injured and several police vehicles were damaged during a violent protest in Chandigarh-Mohali. The protesters, under the banner of Kaumi Insaaf Morcha, had gathered near the border to march towards the Punjab Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh but were stopped by the police. The protesters responded by attacking the police with weapons such as swords, rods, and sticks. Despite police efforts to control the situation with lathicharge and water cannon, the protesters continued their violent behavior, causing damage to police vehicles and injuring several officers.
Kaumi Insaaf Morcha, along with farmer unions, has been protesting for the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their jail sentences. The protesters have been demonstrating for a month and refuse to budge until their demands are met. The 22 injured police officers from Chandigarh included seven female police officers, nine Rapid Action Force personnel, and three Home Guard volunteers. All of the injured officers are stable and receiving treatment at local hospitals.
The Mohali police have registered a case for attempted murder, rioting, and assault on public servants and are working to identify those involved in the violence. The Chandigarh adviser has expressed concern over the matter and will be taking it up with the state government. In response to the violence, Mohali police have increased their presence at the Chandigarh borders with over 500 additional officers deployed.
Balwinder Singh, a member of the morcha’s organizing committee, has condemned the violence and affirmed that the morcha is committed to peaceful protests. The members of the organizing committee are working to identify those responsible for the violence and take corrective measures.
The violent protest resulted in injuries to police officers and damage to police vehicles. The Mohali police are taking legal action against those involved and working to ensure public safety. The Kaumi Insaaf Morcha continues to protest for the release of Sikh prisoners and is committed to peaceful means of protest.
