Chandigarh Police Clash with Qaumi Insaaf Morcha Supporters

On Saturday, Chandigarh Police clashed with supporters of the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha at the border near Yadavindra Public School in Mohali. The protesters attempted to breach police barricades to gain access to Chandigarh. In response, the police deployed water cannons and tear gas in an effort to control the crowd. Witnesses reported that some demonstrators tried to dismantle barricades and even employed tractors in their attempts to advance.

Despite police appeals for the crowd to disperse, protesters remained resolute in their intentions. Authorities had increased police presence in the area to ensure law and order were maintained. Claims emerged that some young participants carried weapons, which Chandigarh Police officials acknowledged observing.

Additionally, the local police detained Simranjit Singh Mann, who was found near Punjab Lok Bhawan disguised as a patient with bandaged facial coverings. However, this report has not been officially confirmed by local authorities.

As the situation escalated at the Chandigarh-Mohali border, law enforcement continued using water cannons and tear gas to prevent the crowd from penetrating the city limits. Vehicles from nearby security agencies reinforced police efforts to maintain control of the area.

The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has called for a ‘Punjab Bandh’ (statewide shutdown) on August 21, seeking public support for the release of Sikh prisoners. This call to action underscores the sustained campaign by the organisation to advocate for their cause. Leaders from the movement have garnered attention by rallying support for their aimed protest, which has drawn significant public attention and controversy.