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Patiala administration turns to army to safely bring down protester from 400-ft tower
Patiala officials seek army assistance to evacuate Gurjeet Singh Khalsa, who has perched atop a 400-foot BSNL tower in Samana for over a year. The move comes as Punjab implements an amended anti-sacrilege law and sets a future descent date for the protester.
Why It Matters
The development highlights government measures to manage a prolonged protest and potential security risks, amid new legal penalties for sacrilege.
Timeline
6 Events
Protester expected to descend on April 24, 2026
April 22, 2026
Khalsa is reported to be expected to descend from the tower on April 24, 2026.
Army feasibility assessment underway
April 22, 2026
The district administration says the army is conducting a feasibility assessment for the operation, with officials stating they will share further updates after formal communication from the armed forces.
Patiala administration seeks army help to safely bring down protester
April 22, 2026
The Patiala administration formally seeks the army’s involvement to safely bring down activist Gurjeet Singh Khalsa, who has perched on a 400-foot BSNL tower in Samana for an extended protest.
Patiala deputy commissioner writes to state seeking army support
April 21, 2026
Patiala deputy commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal writes to the Punjab government requesting technical support from the army to safely evacuate the protester atop the 400-foot tower, citing safety risks.
Punjab government introduces Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026
April 20, 2026
The Punjab government notified the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, proposing stricter punishment for sacrilege against the Guru Granth Sahib, including life imprisonment and fines up to ₹25 lakh.
Gurjeet Singh Khalsa climbs 400-foot BSNL tower in Samana, launching prolonged protest
October 12, 2024
Gurjeet Singh Khalsa, 43, climbs a 400-foot BSNL telecom tower in Samana to protest sacrilege incidents and demand stringent punishment. He remains atop the structure, supported by others supplying him essentials during extreme weather conditions.