Ugrahan to hold mega kisan rally at Talwandi Sabo today

BATHINDA: Talwandi Sabo is set to see two mega public events on Baisakhi amid a surge in Covid-19 cases. The SGPC will hold a religious programme, while the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) has given a call for a ‘Kisan Rally’ on Tuesday.

Talwandi subdivision officer Varinder Singh said instructions from the state government have been sought, as a huge gathering is expected at the events.

He evaded a direct reply on whether the local administration has granted permission to hold mass programmes.

CM Captain Amarinder Singh, on April 7, had announced a complete ban on all political, social, cultural or sports gatherings till April 30.

Sources said there was no specific reference to the ban on mass gatherings organised by religious bodies or farmer unions protesting since September last year against the Centre’s three contentious farm laws.

Paramjit Singh, manager, Gurdwara Damdama Sahib at Takht Damdama Sahib said in view of the expected rush of devotees at the shrine, special stay arrangements have been made.

On Monday, BKU (Ughrahan) spokesman Jasvir Singh said union president Joginder Singh Ugrahan and other farm leaders from Punjab and Haryana will participate in Tuesday’s rally.

Civil surgeon TS Dhillon said they will deploy a special awareness van where people will be motivated to follow covid guidelines.

The district administration has deployed its own police to maintain law and order during the twin events at Talwandi Sabo.