In a major development, Punjab IG Sukhchain Singh Gill on Monday in his address to the media informed that 800 out of almost 1400 farmers detained from Shambhu and Khanauri Border have been released. Punjab Police had detained protesting farmers from Shambhu and Khanauri Border a few days back. Farmers were detained when Punjab Police reached Shambhu and Khanauri Border and dismantled multiple makeshift camps, and other facilities installed by the protestors. The action was carried out to open the Shambhu and Kahanuri Border which were closed for almost 13 months.
AAP leader Harpal Cheema in his address clarified that although the party stands with farmers, the year-long closure of the border was hampering Punjab's economy. IG Sukhchain Singh Gill further informed that around 450 farmers will be released today. Outlining CM Bhagwant Singh Mann's sympathetic stance towards farmers, IG Gill stated that the Punjab Government has decided to release farmers who are women, above 60 years of age and those with medical problems.
Sukhchain Singh Gill also addressed the complaints of thefts that claimed that the goods of farmers had been stolen from the border. IG Gill outlined that 3 FIRs have been registered till now and recovery has also been made.
Furthermore, he informed that SP Jasbir Singh has been appointed as the nodal officer to address such cases. Punjab IG Gill also issued a helpline number for farmers who want to reach out to any cases related to theft. The helpline number is 9071300002.
In the meanwhile, Shambhu Border has been reopened and traffic has resumed on the route after 13 months.