Patiala, 26 January 2025: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann hoisted the national flag at Patiala’s Polo Ground on Republic Day, as security was intensified following a threat from Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, leader of the banned Sikhs for Justice outfit.
Patiala witnessed heightened police presence on Sunday as checkpoints were set up across major intersections and vehicles were thoroughly searched.
Entry and exit points to the city were sealed, while a five-kilometer radius around the Polo Ground and the Circuit House was declared a no-drone zone.
The measures followed an email warning issued by Pannu on Saturday, which targeted schools attending the Republic Day event.
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria presided over the celebrations in Ludhiana, while Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir hoisted the tricolor in Moga.
Despite the threat, the Polo Ground event went ahead peacefully with tight security ensuring public safety.
Police officials, addressing the media, assured the public that anti-social elements would not be allowed to disrupt harmony. “Pannu is attempting to mislead the youth and create fear among people. Punjab Police will not bow down to such threats,” said a senior police official.
The official accused Pannu of spreading divisive rhetoric from abroad to destabilize communal harmony and incite fear.
“His sole aim is to collect money while sitting overseas. However, he underestimates the unity of Patiala, where people of all communities coexist harmoniously,” said the officer, accentuating the significance of local landmarks such as Kali Mata Mandir and Gurdwara Dukhniwaran Sahib as symbols of communal integration.
Punjab Police also vowed to act against Pannu, asserting that he would soon face legal consequences. “We are working towards ensuring he is brought back to Punjab and held accountable for his actions,” the official stated confidently, emphasizing that such divisive tactics would not succeed.
The Republic Day celebrations showcased the government’s resolve to uphold peace in Punjab. Police officials noted their commitment to preventing anti-social activities and reiterated that the state remains vigilant against attempts to disrupt its social fabric.
