Tensions escalated in Punjab’s Mansa district on Tuesday after police took custody of the body of Daljit Singh, a 35-year-old marginal farmer from Bhamme Kalan village, amid protests demanding action against drug trafficking.
Singh was found dead near Ramanandi village on October 27, triggering allegations from his family that he may have died due to a suspected drug overdose. However, police suspect murder, and the exact cause of death remains to be established through a post-mortem examination.
Family Wanted to Take Body to Anti-Drug Activist’s Protest Site
Singh’s family members and villagers staged a protest and attempted to take his body to Trikoni Chowk in Mansa, where an ongoing agitation is demanding justice for anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh, popularly known as Jhota. He was killed on October 13.
The family reportedly wanted to draw attention to the alleged drug menace and demand action against those suspected of supplying narcotics. Police intercepted the procession near Ramdittewala Chowk, leading to a confrontation between protesters and security personnel.
Police Claim Death May Be Murder, Three Suspects Detained
Mansa Senior Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Chaudhary said preliminary findings suggested that Singh’s body had been dumped by occupants of a vehicle. Police said three suspects had been detained and a murder case was being registered.
Authorities maintained that the cause of death would be confirmed after the post-mortem and further investigation. Police also said they intervened to prevent a law-and-order situation from escalating, while protesters alleged that the body was forcibly taken away from the grieving family.
Political Leaders Condemn Police Action
The incident triggered sharp reactions from opposition leaders, who criticised the handling of the situation and accused the Punjab government of failing to curb the drug menace. Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal leaders questioned the police action and expressed concern over the treatment of the deceased’s family and protesters.
Videos showing police personnel taking control of the body and clashes during the confrontation circulated on social media, intensifying the political row.
Tensions Continue Amid Demand for Justice
The confrontation has added to tensions surrounding the ongoing protest over Jhota’s killing. His family and supporters have been demanding accountability and stronger action against drug trafficking in Punjab.
With the investigation into Daljit Singh’s death underway, the post-mortem findings are expected to help establish the cause of death and clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.