High security in Punjab's Bathinda amid Amritpal Singh's rumoured call for Baisakhi congregation
Bathinda (Punjab) April 9: Ahead of Baisakhi celebrations in the state, Punjab Police have ramped up the security arrangements in Bathinda. This comes after an unverified video of 'Waris Punjab De' chief Amritpal Singh surfaces. In the video, Amritpal is allegedly urging followers to spread the word for the big congregation on Baisakhi to discuss issues before the Sikh community.
Surinder Pal Singh Parmar, Additional Director General of Police, stated that the security arrangement sends a positive message that the situation in Punjab is normal.
"We have made elaborate security arrangements. We are here for the convenience of people. We want more and more people to visit the state on Baisakhi. It will send out a positive message that the situation is normal in Punjab. No restrictions have been imposed," he said ahead of Baisakhi celebrations on April 14.
Earlier, on April 2, amid speculation that the fugitive Waris Punjab De chief would surrender at Amritsar's Golden Temple, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Parminder Singh Bhandal stated that if the Khalistan leader wants to surrender, they will assist him in doing so in accordance with the law.
"We are working continuously for the safety and security of the people in Amritsar. Right now, we are more focused on the management of traffic as Baisakhi is around the corner. If Amritpal wants to surrender, we will do our bit according to the law," he added.
Earlier, the fugitive Khalistan leader allegedly appeared in a new video declaring that he is not a "fugitive" and will soon "appear in front of the world."
"Soon I will appear in front of the world. I'm not the kind of person who will go abroad and put out videos," he said, adding, "Many people had said that I got my hair cut. Before getting the hair cut, I will get my head cut."
Amritpal has been on the run since the day Punjab Police launched a huge manhunt for him on March 18.
The crackdown came almost three weeks after Amritpal's supporters attacked Amritsar's Ajnala police station on February 23, seeking the release of one of his close aides, Lovepreet Toofan.
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- ANI
