Mansa (Gurpreet Singh): Police have arrested Ashwani, the prime suspect in the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, in Rajasthan late Tuesday night, a senior police officer confirmed early Wednesday. The accused was reportedly carrying the pistol suspected to have been used in the shooting.
Investigators have detained two people in connection with the case so far. One of them is suspected of helping Ashwani escape after the incident. Police officials said they were awaiting a statement from Jhota’s family before registering a formal First Information Report (FIR).
Jhota was killed on Tuesday following an argument with a chemist over drugs at his shop in Mansa. The shooting was broadcast live on the activist’s Facebook page, drawing widespread public anger and intensifying demands for swift action against those responsible.
The killing sparked protests across Mansa, where demonstrators raised slogans against the police and called for justice. Several activists and political leaders also arrived in the town to express solidarity with the protesters.
Tensions escalated as some demonstrators allegedly vandalised the chemist’s shop and damaged a fire tender during the unrest. Authorities subsequently strengthened security arrangements, deploying a large police contingent across the district and calling in additional personnel to prevent further disturbances.
Despite the heightened security, an indefinite protest remains underway in Mansa. Protesters have established a committee to coordinate their demands, pursue justice for Jhota and engage in discussions with the administration.
The arrest marks a significant development in the investigation, even as public pressure continues to mount over the killing of the anti-drug activist. Police are expected to take further steps as the investigation progresses.
