Qaumi Insaaf Morcha protest: Former MP Simranjit Mann booked, 17 others arrested

Chandigarh police have booked former MP Simranjit Singh Mann and arrested 17 others following a protest organized by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. The demonstration took place on Saturday near the Punjab governor’s residence, with participants demanding the release of Sikh prisoners, referred to as “bandi Singhs,” who are reportedly still detained despite having completed their sentences. According to police, the protest led to the registration of four First Information Reports (FIRs) and involved multiple charges against the accused. During the protest, agitators allegedly violated the orders of the district magistrate and obstructed law enforcement operations. Police stated that some protesters attempted to cross police barricades and create obstructions at the site. A large group gathered at Mattour Barrier on the Sector 51/52 dividing road and blocked it, according to official reports. Protesters carried posters, swung swords, axes, spears, and raised slogans related to the release of Sikh detainees. Some individuals tried to dismantle barriers and barbed wire, while others attempted to pull them down using a tractor at the Chandigarh-Mohali border point as they moved toward the Lok Bhavan. Among those booked was Simranjit Singh Mann, the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). His son, Emaan Singh Man, was among eight people arrested. Both were charged under BNS Section 223, which pertains to disobedience of a lawful order by a public servant. Additionally, Mann and three others were booked under BNS Sections 217, 223, 353, and Section 9 of the Punjab Security of State Act, 1953. These sections address actions that could undermine state security, public order, decency, morality, or incite offenses. Another FIR was filed against several individuals under various provisions of the BNS, the Arms Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. A fourth FIR was registered under similar provisions of the BNS and the Arms Act, resulting in the arrest of nine people. Law enforcement used tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse protesters attempting to breach barricades during the march. During patrols, officers received information about two suspected vehicles stopped at the Sector-7/8 dividing road. Upon inspection, nine individuals were found in these vehicles, all allegedly linked to the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. Four swords were recovered from the vehicles, two from each, before the items and vehicles were seized for further investigation. The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha had called for the protest, urging the release of Sikh prisoners who are believed to have served their sentences but remain incarcerated. The organization has previously highlighted concerns over the treatment of religious minorities in Punjab. While the exact number of detainees and the reasons for their continued detention were not specified in the police statement, the protest underscored ongoing tensions surrounding the rights of religious communities in the region. An investigation is currently underway into the incident, with authorities examining the legality of the protest activities and the compliance with local regulations. The arrests and charges reflect the government’s stance on maintaining public order and enforcing laws related to national security and property protection. As the probe continues, the situation remains under close scrutiny, with potential legal consequences for those implicated in the unrest.