Qaumi Insaaf Morcha Activists Seize Punjab Toll Plazas in 3-Hour Protest
Activists from the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha staged a dramatic takeover of several toll plazas across Punjab on Monday. They allowed motorists to cross without paying any fees from 12 pm to 3 pm. This protest formed part of their ongoing agitation to press for key demands.
Key Demands Driving the Protest
The Morcha is demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have already completed their sentences. They also want decisive action in the 2015 sacrilege cases. Another major demand is the enactment of stringent laws to prevent incidents of religious desecration.
Speakers at the protest sites accused both the central and Punjab governments of ignoring these pending issues. They expressed frustration over the lack of progress on their demands.
Coordinated Actions Across Multiple Locations
The Morcha, with support from allied farm unions and other organizations, coordinated protests at specific toll plazas. These included Dhareeri Jattan in Patiala district, Lehra in Bathinda, Ferozshah in Ferozepur, and Moga.
According to organizers, this program was part of a larger plan. They aim to target up to 49 toll plazas across the state. This action marks a continuation of the Morcha's agitation, which has been ongoing for nearly three years.
Police Detentions and Peaceful Resolution
Police detained several leaders during the protests. Gurcharan Singh was detained at the Dhareeri Jattan toll plaza on the Patiala-Rajpura road. Gurdeep Singh of Bathinda and others faced detention at Lehra. Balwinder Singh of Ferozepur was held at the Ferozshah plaza. Additionally, 15-20 activists were detained in Moga.
Farm leader Darshan Pal, president of Krantikari Kisan Union in Punjab, provided details. He stated that all detainees were released at 3 pm. This release coincided with the conclusion of the protest, allowing the program to end peacefully.
Warnings of Escalation
Leaders issued clear warnings during the protests. They stated that if authorities fail to address their demands, the agitation will intensify. Possible actions include road blockades in the coming days. The Morcha remains determined to push for their demands through sustained pressure.
