CBI Takes Over Punjab Activist Murder Probe as Multiple States See Protests

The Central Bureau of Investigation has taken over the probe into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Punjab's Mansa district. Jhota was shot dead on October 13 inside a medical store after confronting the owner about selling drugs. Police later arrested the accused, Ashwani Kumar, in Rajasthan. Jhota's family demanded a central probe, and his family and supporters have refused to conduct his post-mortem and cremation until they get justice. Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, Congress leaders like Govind Singh Dotasra and Tikaram Jully held a sit-in at the Jaipur Police Commissionerate for the third day. They are demanding a zero FIR over the alleged assault on NSUI leader Ritu Barala by Delhi Police personnel. Police stated that Barala already filed a complaint in Delhi, which is under investigation. The BJP called the Congress protest a political drama, while former chief minister Ashok Gehlot criticised the state government for not registering the FIR. In a separate incident in Rajasthan's Kota, four youths are feared drowned after a boat carrying seven people capsized in the Kotri Canal near Steel Bridge on Tuesday evening during a Durga idol immersion. Three people swam to safety, while rescue teams searched for the missing youths. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Education Minister Madan Dilawar visited the site, and district officials oversaw the rescue work.

Context

These events highlight ongoing law enforcement challenges and political tensions across multiple states. Activist killings and high-profile political protests often draw intense public scrutiny, while canal accidents during festive immersions underline recurring safety risks during local celebrations.