Accused arrested in Rajasthan: Police nab Ashwani Kumar in Salasar; activist’s killing fuels Punjab row: news

Punjab Anti-Drug Activist Murder: Prime Accused Ashwani Kumar Arrested in Salasar, Rajasthan

Punjab Police have arrested Ashwani Kumar, the primary suspect in the broad-daylight killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, from Salasar in Rajasthan. The arrest follows an extensive multi-state manhunt initiated after the shooting, which triggered widespread outrage, localized protests, and a major political confrontation across Punjab.

Key Details of the Arrest and Incident

• The Suspect: Ashwani Kumar, a chemist and medical store owner operating in Mansa, Punjab.

  Daily Pioneer

• Location of Arrest: Salasar, Rajasthan, where Kumar had fled following the incident.

  Indiatimes

• The Confrontation: The incident occurred when Parvinder Singh Jhota confronted Kumar at his medical store over allegations of illicit drug sales to an elderly customer.

  Indiatimes

• On-Camera Attack: The confrontation escalated into fatal gunfire, captured during a live social media broadcast streamed by the activist.

  Indiatimes

• Accomplices: Police previously detained an associate suspected of aiding Kumar’s escape from the crime scene.

  Indiatimes

Escalation and Political Fallout

The killing of Jhotaa prominent local campaigner against illicit substance traffickingignited severe public backlash in Mansa. Demonstrators and supporters staged protests, leading to tension at the site of the chemist shop, while the victim’s family initially refused cremation pending decisive police action.

The event has concurrently sparked sharp political debate in Punjab, with opposition leaders attacking the state administration over law enforcement efficacy, public safety, and the protection of citizens actively exposing illicit drug networks. State authorities have confirmed that interrogation is underway following Kumar’s transit back from Rajasthan to face formal charges.