15 October 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Farmer leaders were allegedly detained by Punjab Police in Jalandhar on Thursday, October 15, 2026, as a statewide bandh was observed demanding justice for anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was murdered in Mansa. The detentions reportedly took place as farmer organisations and supporters prepared to participate in protests over the killing.
According to media reports, farmer leader Kulwinder Singh was allegedly detained at his residence ahead of the bandh. He had announced his participation in the protest and called for justice for Jhota. The incident prompted questions from farmer leaders about restrictions on their right to demonstrate peacefully.
Kulwinder Singh, along with Sukhvir Singh of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Doaba and other supporters, reportedly gathered near the Jalandhar-Amritsar Highway. Police allegedly detained some of the protesters as the demonstration continued. Farmer leaders objected to the action and questioned why they were being prevented from participating in the bandh.
The police action came amid security arrangements across Jalandhar to prevent traffic disruptions and maintain the movement of vehicles on major roads. Police officials said their priority was to keep highways clear and avoid blockades. Authorities moved protesters away from certain locations where demonstrations threatened to affect traffic.
Reports also indicated that Sikh activists and farmer union members gathered at different locations in Jalandhar. Police intervened at some spots to prevent road blockages, while discussions took place with protest organisers. The situation reflected the tension between protesters seeking to highlight their demands and the authorities trying to maintain public order.
Punjab Bandh Called Over Parvinder Singh Jhota’s Murder
The statewide bandh was called after the killing of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist from Mansa. Farmer organisations and other groups supported the shutdown, demanding justice for the deceased and a thorough investigation into the case. Supporters have also raised demands for an independent probe.
Jhota’s murder has triggered strong reactions in Punjab, particularly among people and organisations involved in campaigns against drug abuse. Protesters have called for strict action against those responsible and greater accountability in the investigation.
During the bandh, markets and commercial establishments reportedly remained closed in several areas, while protests and road blockades were reported at different locations. The level of disruption varied from place to place, depending on local participation and police arrangements.
Police Focus on Maintaining Law and Order
Police maintained security arrangements to prevent incidents of violence and ensure that essential movement was not disrupted. Officials sought to clear affected roads and move protesters away from busy traffic points.
Farmer leaders, meanwhile, questioned the alleged detentions and maintained that their protest was intended to demand justice for Jhota. The incident in Jalandhar added to the developments surrounding the statewide shutdown.
The bandh highlighted public concern over Jhota’s killing and renewed calls for a fair investigation. As the case continues to draw attention, the demands of protesters and the police response remain central to the developments surrounding the protest.