Is Bhai Amritpal Singh Ji still on the run?

March 23, 2023

As the sun descends upon the horizon, I find myself contemplating the unfortunate arrest of Bhai Amritpal Singh by the Punjab Police six days ago. Despite his apprehension, the authorities continue to perpetuate the narrative that he remains at large, with a photograph circulating on social media depicting him purportedly evading capture by altering his clothing and appearance. The media has eagerly amplified this story, a lamentable display of irresponsibility in handling such a sensitive matter.

It is disappointing, but not surprising, to witness actress Kangna Ranaut opportunely voicing her condemnation of the Sikh community. However, I possess evidence that unequivocally establishes the falsity of the aforementioned photograph. A photograph obtained from a news channel's Facebook channel, dated March 15th, three days before Bhai Amritpal Singh's arrest, displays a wheat crop standing at waist height. In stark contrast, the image in question portrays wheat that appears freshly planted, with the atmosphere and attire suggesting a time period consistent with late December or January.

While the profile of the individual depicted in the viral photograph as Bhai Amritpal Singh is also circulating on Facebook, adding credence to the possibility of manipulated evidence by the Indian media, the aforementioned observation alone is sufficient to prove the deceitful nature of the information being disseminated to the general public.

The Indian and Punjab governments’ dictatorship behavior has received minimal to no coverage in the media. Instead, the Indian media has focused solely on portraying Bhai sahab and his fellow Sikhs as terrorists, effectively justifying the government's oppressive actions. Individuals who dare to speak out against this injustice are being labeled as terrorists and are also subject to arrest by the police. The recent arrest of journalist Harpal Singh for reporting on the protest at Harike in support of Bhai Sahab is a clear example of the government's attempt to silence dissenting voices.

As someone who has always believed in the principles of democracy, I am deeply troubled by the current state of affairs in our country. The current system may claim to be a democracy, but it does not reflect the true essence of what democracy stands for. It pains me to say that I have found myself questioning whether we truly live in a democratic country. This is not the India that I have always known and loved. The constant oppression and suppression of individual rights and freedoms have left me contemplating the unthinkable, including advocating for a separate country.

Lovepreet Sandhawalia