In Ajnala, public bodies protest police ‘injustice’

Several public organisations in Ajnala on Thursday held a massive protest, alleging police injustice and the misuse of power.

The demonstration was led by Virsa Singh Tapiala and Desan Singh Bhindi of Jamhoori Kisan Sabha, Punjab; Ajit Kaur Kot Razada of Aurat Mukti Morcha; Jagga Singh Dalla of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Naujawan Sabha; and Kala Singh of Dehati Mazdoor Sabha.

After marching through the town’s main markets to gather public support, the protesters staged a massive sit-in outside the office of the Ajnala DSP. Hundreds of farmers, labourers, youngsters and women participated in the protest, waving flags of their respective organisations, and raising slogans against the police administration.

Addressing the gathering, Satnam Singh Ajnala, president of Jamhoori Kisan Sabha, Punjab, and Kulwant Singh Mallunangal, a state committee member, said the law and order situation in the Ajnala area had worsened.

“Gangsters, criminals, and rapists are making life unsafe for ordinary citizens, and this cannot happen without police collusion,” Ajnala said.

The leaders demanded the immediate arrest of, and strict punishment for those accused of attacking Jagga Singh Dalla with an intent to kill, and the recovery of his stolen motorcycle and other belongings.

Speakers, including Satwinder Singh Othian and Balkar Singh Josh, condemned the police for “filing false cases” against villagers like Jagjit Singh of Josh village, and demanded the cancellation of the FIR in this regard.

They also urged strict action against those named in sand-mafia cases at the Ramdas police station.

During the protest, SP (Headquarters) Ajitpal Singh reached the site and held detailed discussions with the protesters, assuring them that all accused in serious cases — including those involved in the Jagga Singh Dalla attack, and rape cases — would be arrested soon.

Following his assurance, the protesters ended their sit-in.