The tragic demise of Shubh Karan Singh, a 21-year-old native of Bathinda, in a clash last Wednesday has sparked intense demands from farm leaders and the deceased’s family for justice. With apprehensions looming over the possibility of the Punjab government conducting a post-mortem without registering a First Information Report (FIR) against the responsible Haryana Police officials, farmers have initiated a round-the-clock vigil at the Government Rajindra Hospital mortuary where Shubh Karan’s body is currently kept.
The fatal incident occurred in Khanauri during a clash when some protesters attempted to advance towards security barricades erected by personnel. As tensions escalate, farm leaders and family members of Shubh Karan have been steadfast in their insistence on filing an FIR against Haryana Police officials under Section 302 (murder).
In response to these demands, farmers have decided to temporarily halt protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri sites until February 29, awaiting the next course of action. Jagjit Singh Dallewal, president of BKU (Ekta Sidhupur), reiterated the stance, emphasizing that the post-mortem procedure would not proceed until justice is served through the registration of an FIR against the concerned Haryana Police officials.
“His family members are also demanding the same,” Dallewal affirmed, underlining the unity of purpose among the protesting farmers and the bereaved family.
Currently, a group of over a dozen farmers has initiated a sit-in near the mortuary, signaling their unwavering resolve. In response, Patiala police have bolstered security measures and erected barricades to seal off the area. Zorawar Singh, district president of BKU (Ekta Sidhupur), present at the sit-in, disclosed plans for around 50 farmers to stage a continuous sit-in near the mortuary, aiming to deter any attempt by the government to proceed with the post-mortem without addressing their demands for justice.
The situation remains tense as stakeholders await the government’s response to the farmers’ demands. As the vigil continues, the determination of the farming community to secure justice for Shubh Karan Singh remains unwavering, underscoring the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice in the aftermath of the tragic incident.
Sources By Agencies