Punjab Police Team Attacked by Farmers’ Union in Bathinda
Incident Overview
In Raike Kalan village, Bathinda, a Punjab Police team was attacked by members of a farmers’ union during the paddy procurement process. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Harbans Singh Dhaliwal reported that an Inspector and a Naib Tehsildar were briefly held captive by the farmers. An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) was injured in the attack and hospitalized.
Details of the Attack
DSP Dhaliwal explained that the farmers’ union surrounded the Inspector and Naib Tehsildar. When the police arrived to negotiate their release, the farmers attacked, injuring an officer and vandalizing police vehicles. The Tehsildar and Inspector were eventually freed. The ASI was attacked with sticks, a kirpan, and a machete, sustaining injuries. Legal action is being pursued.
Political Context
This incident occurs amid criticism of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab over its handling of paddy procurement. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National General Secretary Tarun Chugh accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s administration of politicizing the issue and failing in the procurement process, despite the Centre allocating over Rs 41,000 crore for it. Farmers have protested due to delays in selling their paddy at government markets.
Government Response
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann assured that procurement is ongoing and highlighted Punjab’s contributions to India’s food stock. The state has urged the Centre to increase the procurement rate for dry harvests, warning of potential delays affecting wheat planting.
Doubts Revealed
Punjab Police -: The Punjab Police is the law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining law and order in the state of Punjab, India.
Farmers’ Union -: A Farmers’ Union is a group of farmers who come together to protect their interests and rights, often organizing protests or discussions with the government.
Bathinda -: Bathinda is a city in the Indian state of Punjab, known for its historical significance and agricultural activities.
Paddy Procurement -: Paddy procurement is the process of buying rice crops from farmers by the government or other agencies to ensure they get a fair price.
Inspector -: An Inspector is a rank in the police force, responsible for overseeing police operations and maintaining law and order.
Naib Tehsildar -: A Naib Tehsildar is a government official in India responsible for revenue collection and administration at the sub-district level.
Assistant Sub-Inspector -: An Assistant Sub-Inspector is a junior rank in the police force, assisting in various law enforcement duties.
Aam Aadmi Party -: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is a political party in India, known for its focus on anti-corruption and governance reforms.
BJP -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party, a major political party in India, often seen as a rival to the Aam Aadmi Party.
Tarun Chugh -: Tarun Chugh is a politician from the BJP, who often comments on political issues and government actions.
Central funding -: Central funding refers to money provided by the national government of India to support state projects and initiatives.
