Jalandhar Administration Announces Compensation and Job for Slain Sarpanch's Family
The Jalandhar district administration on Monday announced a significant compensation package for the family of Mohinder Singh, the sarpanch of Butte Dia Chhanna village and a prominent leader of the Jamhoori Kisan Sabha. Singh died after being attacked on February 28, in an incident allegedly orchestrated by drug peddlers. The administration has approved a compensation of Rs 5 lakh and a job in the Deputy Commissioner's office for a family member.
Stadium to Be Named After Slain Leader
In a further tribute to Mohinder Singh, the administration declared that a stadium in the neighbouring village of Baghela will be named after him. This move aims to honor his legacy and contributions to the community, particularly his efforts against drug trafficking in the area.
Police Personnel Transferred and Suspended
In a parallel development, the Jalandhar Rural Police took disciplinary action against police personnel. Mehatpur police station SHO Pankaj Kumar was transferred, and munshi Sukhbir Singh was suspended. These actions follow allegations that police personnel may have tipped off drug peddlers about the sarpanch's anti-drug activities, leading to the attack.
Protests and Demands by Farm Unions
Following Singh's death in the intervening night of Friday and Saturday, members of the Kisan Sabha and various farm and labour unions staged a dharna outside Mehatpur police station. The protesters presented several demands, including:
- Arrest of the main accused involved in the attack.
- Compensation for the family of Mohinder Singh.
- Government coverage of his medical treatment expenses.
- A job for a family member.
- Action against police personnel suspected of colluding with drug peddlers.
Compensation Announcement Ends Protest
Nakodar SDM Simranjit Singh announced the compensation package, which includes the Rs 5 lakh and the job offer. After this announcement, the protest was called off. Protesters highlighted that Mohinder Singh had been consistently raising concerns over the sale of chitta, a synthetic drug, in the area, making him a target for drug peddlers.
Details of the Attack
Mohinder Singh was attacked by five assailants armed with kirpans and iron rods. Villagers alleged that the attackers were merely henchmen, while the real masterminds behind the assault were different individuals linked to drug peddling. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for stricter action against drug-related crimes in the region.
