Punjab Newsline | Mansa
Punjab Police have arrested chemist Ashwini Kumar, accused of shooting dead 45-year-old anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in broad daylight in Mansa, and fleeing the scene. According to police sources, the accused was arrested from Salasar in Rajasthan.
However, the police have not officially confirmed the arrest. Officials said a press conference would be held in Mansa on October 14 to share detailed information about the case.
Meanwhile, Sikh organisations have called for a Mansa bandh on Wednesday in protest against the killing. Shops and commercial establishments across the town remained closed as protesters appealed to people to stand in solidarity with the bereaved family.
Protesters alleged that the government had failed to protect young people and urged the public to raise their voice against the situation. The bandh was organised as a mark of protest and to demand justice for the slain activist.
In view of the possibility of tensions escalating, police have placed leaders of the Akali Dal and Waris Punjab De under house arrest to maintain law and order.
The killing took place on Tuesday when chemist Ashwini Kumar allegedly shot Jhota three times during a Facebook Live session. The incident triggered widespread outrage in the area.
Following the murder, angry residents vandalised the accused's chemist shop in the presence of police personnel and threw goods out of the premises. Protesters also staged a sit-in outside Mansa Civil Hospital, demanding action in the case and justice for the victim.
The incident has sparked tension in Mansa, with Sikh organisations and local residents expressing anger over the killing of the anti-drug activist.
