A group of Congress MPs has approached the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) to seek immediate intervention regarding alleged police brutality against sanitation workers in Barnala. The delegation submitted a memorandum on July 25, formally requesting an independent inquiry into the incident. The MPs stated that these sanitation workers, who are part of the Scheduled Caste community, were protesting for their legitimate rights when they faced excessive police force.

The memorandum, directed to NCSC Chairman Kishor Makwana, highlighted the use of a baton charge by the police during the peaceful protest. The Congress leaders emphasised that instead of addressing the workers’ grievances, the authorities opted for force. They urged the NCSC to ensure that the matter is examined within its mandate, and appropriate legal action be taken against those responsible for the police action.

Chief Minister Blamed for Police Actions

Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has held Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accountable for the police response during the protest, citing that Mann oversees the Home department. Alongside him, Congress MPs including Amar Singh, Dharamvir Gandhi, and Gurjeet Singh Aujla condemned the police’s actions. They stated that the incident raised serious concerns regarding the protection of constitutional rights and the safety of the Scheduled Caste community.

Following the confrontation, several workers reportedly sustained injuries, igniting a wave of unrest in the region. The Congress delegation contended that the district administration and police should have prioritised dialogue over force. Warring expressed the need for an impartial inquiry into the actions taken against the workers and called for accountability to be upheld according to legal standards.

Warring drew comparisons between the Barnala incident and previous police actions under the SAD-BJP government, equating Chief Minister Mann’s administration to that of former SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. He confirmed that the Punjab Congress intends to approach the High Court to seek justice for the injured workers and to hold the responsible police officers accountable.

Government Response to Protests

The police action in Barnala has prompted significant public concern, leading the state government to take immediate steps in response. In the wake of the protests, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) has reportedly been suspended as the government prepares for upcoming elections. This move highlights the urgency with which the government is treating the situation.

Additionally, the Vice Chairperson of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK), Hardeep Singh Gill, has taken note of the incident. He has directed the Punjab government to provide a factual report regarding the events that transpired. This indicates a potential escalation in scrutiny on the actions of local law enforcement during the protest.

In light of the unrest and to address the concerns of the sanitation workers, State Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced a salary increase for contractual sanitation workers. The new monthly salary will be Rs 20,500, aimed at improving their financial situation following the turmoil. This decision reflects an effort by the government to appease the workers amidst ongoing criticisms of its handling of the protests.

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