Patiala: Two groups clashed near Kali Mata temple in Patiala, Punjab on Friday. When the Shiv Sena was carrying out a march against Khalistani groups in Patiala, the clashes erupted. At the rally, stones were being hurled and swords were being brandished. Harish Singla, Punjab Shiv Sena working president led the rally.
Members of some Sikh organisations and the Shiv Sena clashed with each other during the rally. Several people from the crowd were sloganeering. Shiv Sainiks shouted slogans of “Khalistan Murdabad”. Following this, some members of Sikh organisations took to the streets, wielding swords. The situation worsened when both groups started stone-pelting.
Several videos of the incident emerged on social media in which a section of people can be seen brandishing swords and shouting slogans. Some are even seen arguing with police officials as the situation escalated.
Reportedly, a few were injured in the incident. There was heavy police deployment at the spot to maintain a law and order situation.
Patiala Inspector General of Police Rakesh Agarwal told reporters in Patiala that the situation was now under control. “We have called force from outside. A Peace committee meeting has been called by the Deputy Commissioner,” he said, he said, adding restoring peace in the area was their priority.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has termed the incident an unfortunate one. Taking to Twitter he wrote, “The incident of clashes in Patiala is deeply unfortunate. I have spoken to the DGP; peace has been restored in the area. We are closely monitoring the situation and will not let anyone create disturbance in the state,” Mann said in a tweet.
He said Punjab’s peace and harmony are of utmost importance. When asked his views about the incident, the IG said, The incident took place as some mischievous elements had spread some rumours. We have controlled the situation. We are conducting a flag march in Patiala city”.
On being questioned about how many have been injured in the incident, Agarwal said they were still checking it.
“Due to some rumour, things had escalated, but things have been controlled now,” he said. Deputy Commissioner, Patiala, Sakshi Sawhney said: “We appeal to all to maintain calm and not to lend credence to any rumours.”
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