Mansa: The killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Punjab’s Mansa district has triggered tension in the city, with his supporters and family members calling for a shutdown and gathering at the Civil Hospital.
Police have launched searches for the accused medical store owner, Ashwani Kumar, who allegedly fled after the shooting.
A Facebook Live video recorded by Jhota shortly before the incident appears to capture a heated confrontation between him and the shopkeeper over allegations of illegal drug sales. In the video, Jhota questions the shopkeeper about allegedly supplying intoxicating substances to an elderly man and asks him to show the CCTV footage.
Jhota is also heard asking the shopkeeper about a pistol, while the latter denies having one. The argument continues as a crowd gathers at the shop. Jhota tells people to keep their distance, claiming that the shopkeeper has a firearm.
After approximately four minutes of argument, the video appears to capture gunshots being fired. Jhota’s face is briefly visible before the phone falls, ending the recording. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are subject to police investigation.
The Punjab police have launched the investigation while opposition leaders blamed the state government over alleged deteriorating law and order in the state. Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal, Punjab BJP state President Kewal Singh Dhillon, senior BJP leader Sunil Jakhar among others condemned the killing and corned the ruling government.
Supporters announce shut down; opposition questions government
Following the shooting, Jhota’s supporters and relatives began assembling at Mansa Civil Hospital and announced a citywide shutdown. Police have reportedly started raids to locate the suspected assailant.
The killing has also provided fresh ammunition to opposition parties, which have targeted the Punjab government over the state’s drug problem and law-and-order situation. The investigation is ongoing, and the allegations against the suspected accused have not been established in court.
