A statewide Punjab bandh has been called for October 15, 2026, following the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. The protest committee is demanding a CBI investigation and accountability in the case. Reports published on October 14 state that the main accused, Ashwani Kumar, was apprehended in Rajasthan. The impact of the bandh on shops, transport and other public services will depend on local participation and official instructions.
- A statewide Punjab bandh has been called for Thursday, October 15.
- The protest follows the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa.
- Protesters are demanding a CBI investigation and action against those responsible.
- Reports say the main accused has been apprehended in Rajasthan.
- Residents should check local announcements for confirmed school closures, transport disruptions and other changes.
Punjab Bandh Called for October 15 After Mansa Killing
A statewide bandh has been called in Punjab for October 15 following the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa district. The call was issued by a joint action committee after the shooting triggered protests and demands for an independent investigation.
The committee has called for a CBI probe into the killing and sought accountability from the state government and senior police officials. Protesters have also demanded action against people allegedly involved in the illegal sale of intoxicating substances.
According to reports, the committee has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding Jhota’s death and called for stronger action against the drug trade.
The bandh is expected to affect normal activities in areas where traders, transport operators and other organisations support the shutdown. However, the extent of disruption across the state remains dependent on local participation.
Parvinder Singh Jhota Shot Dead in Mansa
Parvinder Singh Jhota, known for his campaign against drug abuse, was shot during a confrontation at a medical store in Mansa on October 13.
According to media reports, Jhota had gone to the shop with associates and confronted its owner, Ashwani Kumar, over allegations concerning the sale of intoxicating substances. The confrontation reportedly escalated, and shots were fired.
Punjab anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota was shot dead in Mansa after a confrontation with a medical store owner over the alleged sale of addictive drugs.https://t.co/26l20iw51Q#parvinderjhota #Punjabnews #murdercase #mansamurdercase pic.twitter.com/jYSBmb5G9P
— Nav Bharat Journal (@nbharatjournal) October 14, 2026
Jhota sustained gunshot injuries and later died. Reports also stated that four of his associates were injured in the incident.
Jhota had gained attention for confronting people he accused of selling drugs and sharing videos of such encounters on social media. His activities had also brought him into conflict with the police and resulted in legal disputes.
Police have reportedly pointed to an earlier dispute between Jhota and the shop owner. Investigators will need to establish the circumstances of the shooting and determine responsibility based on the available evidence.
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Latest Update: Main Accused Reportedly Apprehended in Rajasthan
Reports published on October 14 state that Ashwani Kumar, the main accused in the case, was apprehended in Salasar, Rajasthan.
Earlier reports said police had arrested another person suspected of helping the accused escape after the shooting. The latest reported development marks a significant step in the investigation, although further details about the accused’s legal proceedings should be confirmed through official police statements.
The reported apprehension has not resolved the protesters’ wider demands. The action committee continues to seek an independent investigation and accountability over the killing.
What Are Protesters Demanding?
The joint action committee has raised several demands following Jhota’s death. These include:
- A CBI investigation into the murder.
- Accountability for those responsible for the killing.
- Action against individuals allegedly involved in the illegal sale of intoxicating substances.
- The resignation of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
- Action against Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav.
These are demands made by the protesters and should not be interpreted as decisions already taken by the government.
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Will Schools, Shops and Transport Be Affected?
The impact of the Punjab bandh on October 15 will depend on participation in different districts and any instructions issued by the authorities.
Markets may stay shut in places where merchants back the protest. Bus services and vehicle traffic could potentially be disrupted if demonstrations are held. However, a bandh call does not mean that all the schools, universities, government agencies and banks will remain closed.
Travel arrangements should be made in consultation with announcements from local administration, educational and transport organizations before planning travel: residents.
Passengers should also contact the relevant operators directly about bus and train services, as any disruption may vary by route and location.
What Happens Next?
The investigation into Jhota’s killing and the response to the committee’s demands are likely to remain central to developments in Punjab.
The bandh on October 15 will be a measure of the support that the protest has. Meanwhile, more information from the police should clear up the status of the accused and the progress of the investigation.
Residents should stay tuned to the authentic news sources and official announcements for information regarding the bandh and any probable disruption in public services.
FAQs
Why has Punjab called a bandh on October 15?
A joint action committee has called the bandh to protest the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa and demand an independent investigation.
Who was Parvinder Singh Jhota?
Jhota was an anti-drug activist known for confronting people he accused of selling intoxicating substances and sharing videos of these confrontations online.
Has the main accused been arrested?
Reports published on October 14 say the main accused, Ashwani Kumar, was apprehended in Rajasthan. Further legal developments should be confirmed through official updates.
Will schools remain closed on October 15?
A statewide bandh call does not automatically mean all schools will close. Parents should check announcements from their schools and district administrations.
Will public transport operate during the bandh?
Some routes may experience delays or disruption. Travellers should check the latest updates from transport operators before leaving.
Sources & References
- The Tribune – Anti-drug activist Jhota shot by chemist in Mansa
- The Tribune – Parvinder Jhota murder: First arrest made, Bathinda police say old enmity behind killing
- The Indian Express – From addiction to anti-drug crusade: Punjab activist Jhota’s fight ended in the same market where it began
- NDTV – Punjab activist Parvinder Singh Jhota shot dead by medical store owner in Mansa
- PTC News – Parvinder Singh Jhota murder case: Main accused Ashwani Kumar arrested from Rajasthan’s Salasar
- Punjabi Tribune – Punjab ban
