Punjab Anti-Drug Activist Parminder Singh Jhota Shot Dead in Mansa
What Happened
Parminder (Parvinder) Singh Jhota, a prominent anti-drug activist in Punjab’s Mansa district, was shot dead at close range while live-streaming a dispute with a medical store owner accused of selling synthetic drugs. Incident details: Jhota confronted the shop owner on Facebook Live, accusing him of selling drugs. The video shows an argument escalating before gunshots were fired. Casualties: Jhota died on the spot; at least two associates were seriously injured and rushed to Mansa Civil Hospital. Accused: The alleged shooter has been identified as Ashwani Kumar, a chemist shop owner, who fled after the attack. Police said Kumar has multiple prior cases against him. Activism: Jhota led an organisation called “Force”, campaigning against drug abuse, confronting dealers, and urging village panchayats to pass anti-drug resolutions. Political reaction: Leaders from the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal condemned the killing, blaming the Punjab government for failing to protect activists. Police have set up checkpoints across Mansa, are examining CCTV footage, and have launched a manhunt for the accused.
Key Takeaways
Jhota’s murder highlights the risks faced by grassroots activists challenging Punjab’s drug trade. The killing, captured live on social media, has intensified calls for stronger law enforcement and protection for those fighting narcotics in the state.