Curfew was relaxed for 90 minutes in at least three places in this industrial hub of Punjab where situation on Sunday remained peaceful, a day after violent clashes between police and a group of protestors from the Sikh community objecting to a religious congregation by a sect claimed one life and injured 15 others.
The curfew was relaxed for 90 minutes in areas falling under Model town, Saraba Nagar and police station division number five, officials said here adding the situation remained peaceful but tense during the period.
However, strict vigil was in place in rest of the city with forces keeping an eagle’s watch on the situation.
The curfew will remain clamped till further orders to maintain peace and order, Deputy Commissioner Vikas Garg said.
Also, the funeral of Darshan Singh (54), who was killed in the clash went off peacefully at his native Lohara village.
The Punjab Government has announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of the victim, officials said here.
Singh along with other protestors was trying to move towards the venue of a religious function organised by Ashutosh Maharaj. When they refused to stop, police allegedly resorted to firing resulting in Singh’s death and injuries to several others.
Meanwhile, Sikh organisations, including Damdami Taksal, have called for Punjab shut down on Monday.
