Chandigarh, March 24 — Punjab Police on Monday announced the release of 450 more farmers from custody following allegations by farmer unions that several detained protesters were still missing. Authorities also vowed to trace and return any belongings lost during the detentions.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Dr. Sukhchain Singh Gill stated that nearly 800 farmers had already been freed. “In line with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s directives, we are prioritizing the release of women, differently-abled individuals, those with medical conditions, and farmers above 60. About 450 farmers are being released today,” he said.
The announcement came after farmer unions filed a habeas corpus petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking the release and whereabouts of missing farmers.
Addressing concerns over confiscated or lost belongings, Gill assured that the Punjab Government had issued strict directives to prevent the misappropriation of farmers’ property.
To facilitate assistance, the Patiala district police appointed SP Jasbir Singh as the nodal officer. Farmers facing difficulties can contact him directly at 90713-00002 for immediate support. Gill added that Patiala Police had already registered three FIRs related to the issue.
