Qaumi Insaaf Morcha protest: Former MP Simranjit Mann booked, 17 others arrested

Former Member of Parliament Simranjit Singh Mann was among four individuals booked, and 17 others were arrested following a protest in Chandigarh organized by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. The group was advocating for the release of Sikh prisoners, referred to as 'bandi Singhs,' who remain incarcerated despite allegedly completing their sentences.

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seeking the release of 'bandi Singhs'

The protesters attempted to march towards the Punjab governor's residence, leading to confrontations with the police. Authorities deployed tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse the crowd as demonstrators tried to breach barricades. Some protesters reportedly used a tractor in an attempt to dismantle barricades and barbed wire, aiming to proceed towards the Lok Bhavan.

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violating the orders of the district magistrate, blocking the road and trying to break the police barricades.

According to police statements, a large gathering assembled at Mattour Barrier on the Sector 51/52 dividing road, blocking it. The protesters allegedly attempted to break through police barricades while carrying posters and various weapons, including swords, axes, and spears, while chanting slogans for the release of Sikh detainees. Police claimed that agitators violated district magistrate orders and obstructed officers from performing their duties.

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disobedience of a lawful order by a public servant

Four First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered on Saturday based on a complaint by an assistant sub-inspector. Charges included violating district magistrate orders, blocking roads, and attempting to break police barricades. Simranjit Singh Mann's son, Emaan Singh Mann, was among eight arrested under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which addresses disobedience of lawful orders. Mann himself and three others were booked under BNS Sections 217, 223, 353, and Section 9 of the Punjab Security of State Act, 1953, which criminalizes acts undermining state security or public order. Additional FIRs were registered against several individuals under provisions of the BNS, the Arms Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

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undermining state security, public order, decency, morality, or incite offense