5 injured as SAD groups clash at Lambi in Muktsar

Lambi : Two factions of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) clashed over the distribution of cheques to the poor at a gurdwara at Sehna Khera village in Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal’s home constituency Lambi in Muktsar district on Thursday. Five people suffered injuries during the brawl, which took place in the presence of CM’s OSD Balkaran Singh. They were taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC), Lambi. While one faction was led by former sarpanch Jaswant Singh and Jasmel Singh Mithri, the other was led by Kuldeep Singh, husband of sarpanch Kiranjit Kaur, and Babbu Brar.The clash ensued as both factions raised objection over keeping the cheques of some beneficiaries who were not present there with them. Someone from the crowd used abusive language and the activists of both factions started hurling chairs at one another. They even pelted one another with stones and bricks. Later, a faction took out a march in the village. The incident lasted around half an hour.A police party, too, arrived on the scene and controlled the situation.
Kuldeep Singh alleged, “The cheque distribution work was going on smoothly. But someone from the other faction used abusive language and passed casteist remarks. It led to a brawl. Our two activists–Sukhraj and Vicky—suffered head injuries.”On the other hand, Khushbir Singh, grandson of Jaswant Singh, said, “The clash erupted over distribution of cheques. The husband of the sitting sarpanch kept cheques of some beneficiaries who were not present there with him, but when we wanted to do the same he, along with others, raised an objection. They used derogatory words, which led to the clash. Our three activists–Parkash Singh, Avtar Singh and Baldev Singh—were injured.”
The Lambi police have started investigation. SHO Gurpreet Singh said, “We have started investigation. Five people from both the factions have suffered injuries. A case will be registered after recording their statements and receiving the medico-legal report. The situation is under control now.”