Samana (Patiala): Tension gripped Samana on Tuesday after farmers announced an indefinite protest in support of Gurjeet Singh Khalsa, leading to clashes with police who had barricaded entry points into the town.
Members of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) gathered in large numbers to stage a demonstration but were stopped by heavy police deployment. When protesters attempted to move forward toward the protest site, scuffles broke out between the two sides.
Police reportedly resorted to mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd after repeated warnings went unheeded. Both farmers and police personnel sustained minor injuries during the confrontation.
Tower protest since October 2024
Gurjeet Singh Khalsa has been perched atop a 400-foot-high BSNL tower in Samana since October 2024, demanding a stringent law against incidents of sacrilege. The 43-year-old protester has refused to climb down despite adverse weather and health concerns, insisting that he will continue his agitation until a strict anti-sacrilege law is enacted.
Supporters had also launched a foot march from January 1 to intensify pressure on the government.
Preventive detentions
In anticipation of unrest, Punjab Police had detained nearly 90 farmer leaders and activists from various districts, including Sangrur, to prevent them from reaching Samana. Among those detained was Bhana Sidhu, a senior leader associated with BKU Sidhupur, who was stopped while heading toward the protest site.
Police officials said multiple appeals were made to maintain peace. However, when protesters continued advancing toward the tower, force had to be used to prevent escalation.
Farmers remain firm on their demand for a new law prescribing strict punishment for sacrilege, keeping the situation in Samana tense.
