Security in Bathinda has been heightened ahead of Baisakhi celebrations in Punjab following the circulation of an unverified video of Khalistani preacher and ‘Waris Punjab De’ chief Amritpal Singh calling on his followers to spread the word about a big congregation on Baisakhi to discuss issues affecting the Sikh community. Additional Director General of Police Surinder Pal Singh Parmar stated that elaborate security arrangements had been made to ensure the safety and convenience of people, and he encouraged more people to visit the state on Baisakhi as a positive message that the situation is normal in Punjab. There are currently no restrictions imposed on the celebrations.
Earlier, on April 2, there were speculations that the fugitive Waris Punjab De chief would surrender at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Parminder Singh Bhandal stated that if the Khalistan leader chooses to surrender, the authorities will assist him in accordance with the law. Bhandal also stated that the safety and security of the people in Amritsar are the top priority, and the police are currently focused on managing traffic as Baisakhi approaches.
In a recent video, Amritpal Singh denied being a fugitive and declared that he would soon “appear in front of the world”. He dismissed claims that he abandoned his friends and followers, stating that he is not the type of person who would go abroad and put out videos. He also addressed rumors that he had cut his hair, saying that before getting a haircut, he would get his head cut. Punjab Police had launched a massive manhunt for Amritpal Singh on March 18, following the storming of Ajnala police station in Amritsar by his supporters on February 23.
