Anti-drug activist's killing exposes Khalistan recruitment in Punjab
Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist in Punjab, was shot dead on October 13, 2026, during a confrontation with a medical-store owner in Mansa. Jhota had built a following by publicly exposing alleged illegal sale of addictive medicines and challenging medical retailers. His killing has triggered protests and accusations against the AAP government.
Investigations reveal that Jhota had grown disillusioned with the state government's handling of drugs and had moved closer to Waris Punjab De, an organisation led by Amritpal Singh, who openly advocates Khalistan. A photograph of Jhota with Bhindranwale imagery adds another layer to the inquiry.
The case mirrors a historical pattern in Punjab. Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a key figure in 1980s Khalistani terrorism, initially rose to prominence through an anti-tobacco campaign in 1981. The parallel suggests how legitimate social and religious campaigns in Punjab can become intertwined with separatist political movements, creating a recruitment pathway for extremist organisations.
