Protest Turns Violent in Ambala, Injuring Six Police Officers

Six police officers sustained injuries, some serious, during a protest in Ambala on Thursday evening, August 13, 2026. The demonstration, involving members of the Sikh community, occurred near Gurdwara Panjokhra Sahib. Authorities deployed force, including tear gas and lathicharge, to disperse the crowd and clear the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway, which had been blocked for hours.

What Happened

The protest began with demands for the arrest of Gursimran Singh Mand, national president of the International Anti-Khalistani Terrorist Front. Mand is accused of attempting to run over individuals with his vehicle. As protesters blocked traffic on the National Highway, police engaged in negotiations. According to Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal, the situation escalated when stone-pelting commenced. To reopen the highway, the Haryana Police resorted to lathicharge. Ambala Superintendent of Police Ajit Singh Shekhawat stated that police were compelled to use force due to attacks by individuals armed with weapons such as spears, swords, and axes. He also reported that protestors seized vehicles, including a gas tanker, to prolong the blockade. The highway has since been cleared, and authorities are monitoring the situation.

Key Facts

• Six police personnel, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police, were injured in a clash with Sikh protestors in Ambala on Thursday, August 13, 2026.
• The protest took place near Gurdwara Panjokhra Sahib, demanding the arrest of Gursimran Singh Mand, national president of the International Anti-Khalistani Terrorist Front.
• Protestors allegedly blocked the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway for several hours.
• Police used tear gas and lathicharge to disperse the crowd after the protest turned violent, involving stone-pelting and alleged attacks with weapons.
• Approximately 1,500-1,600 people had gathered for the protest.
• The injured police personnel were admitted to Military Hospital and Civil Hospital for treatment.
• The highway has been cleared, and legal action is being considered against those involved.

Background

The protest was initiated to seek action against Gursimran Singh Mand following an incident where he allegedly attempted to run over people with his car. An FIR had been registered against Mand prior to the demonstration. The disruption caused by the highway blockade led to significant traffic issues for commuters.