The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) unit in Jalandhar has declared a significant protest action, announcing plans to stage a gherao, or encirclement, of local police stations. This move comes as a direct response to what the party labels as police inaction on a series of unresolved public complaints and issues.
Protest Planned for March 30
The party has set a firm date for its demonstration. The gherao of police stations across the Jalandhar district is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 30. This planned agitation underscores the growing frustration among party workers and the public regarding the perceived lack of responsiveness from law enforcement authorities.
Leading this charge is the district president of Shiv Sena (UBT), Mr. Rajinder Singh. He has been vocal in articulating the party's grievances, stating that the decision to resort to a gherao was not taken lightly. According to Singh, the protest is a necessary escalation after repeated attempts to get the police to address pressing concerns fell on deaf ears.
Core Issues Driving the Agitation
The list of unresolved issues presented by the Shiv Sena is multifaceted, pointing to several areas of public discontent. A primary concern revolves around allegations of illegal drug trafficking and the operation of illicit liquor outlets within the district. The party claims that despite providing specific information, the police have failed to take decisive action to curb these activities, which they say are harming the social fabric, particularly the youth.
Furthermore, the Shiv Sena has highlighted incidents of public nuisance and disturbances. They cite examples where individuals have engaged in reckless behavior, such as firing shots in the air during celebrations or arguments, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among residents. The party's stance is that the police have been ineffective in preventing such incidents or apprehending the culprits involved.
Another critical point of contention is the perceived failure to act against individuals with political connections. The Shiv Sena alleges a pattern where influential figures involved in unlawful activities are shielded from legal consequences, eroding public trust in the police force's impartiality and commitment to justice.
A Final Warning and Demand for Action
Rajinder Singh framed the upcoming gherao as a final warning to the district police administration. He emphasized that the party has exhausted all conventional channels of communication and appeal. The planned encirclement of police stations is intended to be a peaceful yet powerful demonstration of public anger and a direct demand for accountability.
The party's ultimatum is clear: the police must promptly address the pending complaints and take visible, concrete steps to resolve the highlighted issues. The Shiv Sena has warned that if their demands continue to be ignored, they will be compelled to intensify their protest campaign, potentially leading to larger and more sustained forms of agitation across Jalandhar.
This development sets the stage for a tense confrontation between a prominent political party and the law enforcement machinery in a key Punjabi city. The outcome of the March 30 protest and the police's response to the grievances raised will be closely watched by citizens and political observers alike.
