Chandigarh, October 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A shutdown was observed in several parts of Punjab on Thursday following a bandh call by the family of slain anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, with political parties, farmer unions, traders and social organisations extending support to the demand for justice.
The bandh was scheduled from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. despite drizzle in several areas. Protesters demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into Jhota’s killing and accountability from the state administration over alleged illegal drug sales and the safety of those campaigning against drug abuse.
Jhota’s father, Bhim Singh, demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, along with action against officials responsible for drug control and law and order in the district. The family has refused to cremate Jhota’s body until its demands are addressed.
Jhota was shot dead in broad daylight in Mansa on Tuesday while livestreaming a confrontation with medical store owner Ashwani Kumar over the alleged sale of addictive drugs. The incident, captured on video, triggered widespread outrage.
Police registered a case on the basis of a complaint filed by Jhota’s father and arrested the main accused in Rajasthan on Wednesday. Investigators have said they will examine the possible involvement of others in the alleged conspiracy.
The Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal, BJP and Akali Dal Waris Punjab De were among the political groups reported to have supported the bandh. Farmer unions, employee organisations and social activists also joined the protest call.
In Amritsar, farmers and other protesters gathered at the Golden Gate under the leadership of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee. They raised slogans against the state government and burnt an effigy of Mann despite heavy rain, accusing the government of failing to curb the drug menace.
Tensions had escalated in Mansa on Wednesday when protesters demolished and set fire to the accused’s medical store. Authorities also demolished part of his house, citing alleged unauthorised construction. Police erected barricades on roads leading to the town amid concerns about further unrest.
Mann has promised strict action against those found responsible and directed the Punjab Police to conduct a thorough investigation. He has also appealed for peace, assuring that anyone found involved in a conspiracy would face action.
Jhota’s killing has intensified concerns over the alleged illegal sale of habit-forming medicines and the risks faced by people confronting suspected drug sellers.
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