Samana Town in Punjab Observes Near-Total Shutdown Amid Scripture Desecration Protest
The town of Samana in Punjab's Patiala district witnessed a near-complete shutdown on Monday as hundreds of activists and farmers rallied under the banner of the Dharam Yudh Morcha. The protest intensified their long-standing demand for a stringent national law against the desecration of holy scriptures, bringing commercial activity to a standstill.
Renewed Momentum with Tower Protest Milestone
The agitation gained renewed momentum as activist Gurjeet Singh Khalsa crossed the 506-day mark of his extraordinary protest. Since October 12, 2024, Khalsa has been camping atop a nearly 400-foot telecom tower, becoming a symbolic figure in the movement. His sustained demonstration has drawn attention to the cause and galvanized supporters across the region.
Widespread Shutdown and Police Presence
Markets throughout Samana remained shut, with several trader associations voluntarily closing their establishments in solidarity with the protestors. Flags lined the streets, and large congregations assembled near the protest site throughout the day. Organizers described the shutdown as "peaceful but resolute," though a visible police presence underscored the administration's concerns about maintaining law and order.
Ultimatum to Punjab Government
The morcha's management committee issued a direct ultimatum to the AAP-led Punjab government. They demanded that the proposed Punjab Prevention of Offences Against Holy Scripture(s) Bill be passed in the forthcoming assembly session without further delay. A specific deadline was set for Samana MLA Chetan Singh Joramajra, who was asked to appear on the morcha stage by Tuesday to clarify the government's official position.
Protest leaders warned that failure to respond would prompt demonstrators to march directly to Joramajra's residence. "If the sentiments of the Sangat are ignored, this movement will spread across Punjab," declared morcha coordinator Gurpreet Singh while addressing the gathering.
Legislative Background and Government Response
While the Punjab government introduced a draft bill in mid-2025 proposing life imprisonment for desecration of sacred texts including the Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and Bible, the legislation has yet to secure final approval. Protest leaders alleged that the proposal remains stalled in procedural channels, a charge that the government has not formally addressed or responded to publicly.
Recent Tensions and Detentions
Recent days have seen sporadic scuffles between protesters and police personnel. Last week, authorities detained over 200 activists in an effort to prevent an attempted blockade, though most were subsequently released. These incidents highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding the protest movement and the delicate balance between demonstration rights and public order maintenance.
The Dharam Yudh Morcha's persistent campaign reflects deep-seated concerns about religious respect and legal protection for sacred texts, with Monday's shutdown demonstrating their organizational strength and determination to see legislative action on this sensitive issue.
