Roadways employees’ strike turns violent as protesters allegedly pour petrol on Dhuri SHO Jasvir Singh; 25 arrested
Sangrur: A major incident unfolded in Punjab’s Sangrur district on Friday when Dhuri SHO Jasvir Singh was allegedly set on fire during a violent protest by Punjab Roadways and PRTC (PEPSU) contract employees. The shocking visuals from the site showed flames engulfing the officer as fellow policemen rushed to his aid, using their jackets to douse the fire.
According to early reports, Punjab Roadways and PRTC workers had called for a statewide strike to protest against the kilometer scheme and contractual employment policies. Demonstrations were held across Punjab, but tensions escalated in Sangrur when a group of protesters climbed onto buses with bottles of petrol in their hands.
Witnesses stated that while SHO Jasvir Singh attempted to intervene and stop the protesters from sprinkling petrol, some of the fuel came in contact with him, triggering the fire. In the chaos that followed, police personnel acted swiftly and managed to extinguish the flames, preventing a potentially fatal tragedy.
Officials confirmed that the SHO sustained serious burn injuries on his face, head, and hands, but his condition is reported to be stable. He was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Soon after the incident, the police launched a crackdown and arrested around 25 protesters for their alleged involvement. An investigation is underway to determine who directly ignited the fire and how the situation spiraled out of control.
The violent turn of events has shocked the region, raising serious questions about protest safety and law-and-order preparedness. Authorities stated that strict action will be taken against those responsible.
