Punjab: Curfew imposed in Patiala district after violent clashes

Patiala, April 29: District Magistrate Sakshi Sawhney has ordered imposition of curfew in Patiala district till 0600 hours on Saturday in the aftermath of the violent clashes that broke out between groups of two communities on Friday afternoon. Section 144 will be applicable in Patiala starting from 1900 hours on April 29 to 0600 hours on April 30, as per the official order issued by the District Magistrate. Police fired in the air following a clash between members of the two communities outside the Kali Mata temple. They pelted stones at each other and also brandished swords. Inspector General of Police, Patiala Range, Rakesh Aggarwal told the media that heavy police force has been deployed in the area and the situation was under control. Members of one community, led by Harish Singla, working president of Shiv Sena Punjab, wanted to hold ‘Khalistan Murdabad’ march, while members of another group opposed the march. Four persons, including a cop, sustained injuries in the violence. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena has expelled Harish Singla over ‘anti-party activities.’ (UNI)