Anti-drug activist Parvinder Jhota murdered in Mansa
Anti-drug activist Parvinder Jhota shot dead during social media live stream in Mansa. Authorities demolish suspect's property amid rising tensions.
In a chilling incident that has sent shockwaves through Punjab, anti-drug activist and former freestyle kabaddi player Parvinder Singh Jhota was shot dead on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The brazen attack occurred in Mansa while Jhota was actively protesting against the illegal sale of narcotics at a local medical store via a social media live stream.
The violence did not claim only one life; four other individuals sustained injuries during the shooting. Two of the victims are currently fighting for their lives in critical condition and have been rushed to Bathinda for specialized medical treatment.
Suspect Apprehended in Rajasthan
Following a swift investigation, law enforcement officials have arrested the primary suspect, a chemist identified as Ashwini Kumar. The arrest was made in Salasar, Rajasthan. According to police reports, Kumar allegedly utilized his own licensed pistol to carry out the lethal assault.
Tensions Boil Over in Mansa
The murder has plunged Mansa into a state of high tension. Local businesses have shuttered their doors in a silent protest against the killing. The atmosphere remains volatile as Jhota’s family, supporters, and various Sikh organizations have staged intense sit-ins at the hospital and at 12 Hata Chowk.
The protesters have taken a firm stand, refusing to perform the final rites of the deceased until specific demands are met. Their list of demands includes:
- A high-level investigation by the CBI.
- The resignation of the Chief Minister.
- The resignation of the Director General of Police (DGP).
Bulldozer Action Sparks Standoff
In a decisive move linked to the state's 'War Against Drugs' campaign, authorities deployed bulldozers to demolish the property owned by the accused, Ashwini Kumar. This action, however, ignited a fierce confrontation with Nihang groups and other supporters gathered at the site, leading to a dangerous standoff.
Mansa SSP Vaibhav Chaudhary attempted to mediate through late-night negotiations with the demonstrators, but initial efforts to restore calm proved unsuccessful. In response to the escalating crisis, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has called for an emergency high-level meeting with all district SSPs, SDMs, and DCPs to stabilize the security situation.
Political Storm Brews
The incident has become a major political flashpoint in Punjab. Opposition leaders have launched scathing attacks on the state government regarding the breakdown of law and order and the ongoing drug menace.
Raja Warring, Congress MP, has demanded that Jhota be officially recognized as a martyr and has called for a formal resolution in the Punjab Legislative Assembly. Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia has also criticized the administration's handling of the crisis.
As the state grapples with the aftermath, the Punjab Congress has announced a statewide shutdown on October 15 to show solidarity with the victim's family.