Mansa, October 13: A Punjab Bandh has been called for Thursday, October 15, following the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. The call has been issued by Jhota’s family and a struggle committee formed after his death as protests over the case continue.
The decision was announced amid growing demonstrations in Mansa, where supporters and members of the family have been demanding justice in the murder case. Protesters have also set up a permanent demonstration on the Barnala–Sirsa National Highway near Mansa.
The committee formed following Jhota’s killing has called upon people across Punjab to support the October 15 shutdown. However, detailed information regarding the exact bandh timings and which services will remain affected across the state has not yet been officially announced.
Therefore, reports circulating about all schools, markets, public transport or other services remaining completely closed across Punjab should be treated cautiously until individual organisations or the authorities issue specific announcements.
Mansa witnessed protests soon after Jhota’s death. Markets in the city were shut and additional police personnel were deployed as a precaution. Schools in Mansa were also closed following the incident.
Parvinder Singh Jhota, known for campaigning against drug abuse and the alleged illegal sale of intoxicating substances, was killed in Mansa on October 13 following a confrontation at a medical store. Police launched an investigation into the case and constituted teams to trace those allegedly involved.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has also called a high-level law-and-order meeting following the incident and directed police officials to speed up the investigation and bring those responsible to justice at the earliest.
The October 15 Punjab Bandh call is expected to keep the case at the centre of public attention. Further details regarding transport services, markets, educational institutions and the duration of the bandh will become clearer as organisers and authorities issue additional instructions.
The Jalandhar Times will update the report as more verified information regarding the October 15 Punjab Bandh becomes available.
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