Patiala police defended their use of force against protesting apprentice linemen outside the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited headquarters, claiming they blocked access for employees. The incident, which resulted in over 20 injuries, has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders and unions demanding accountability.

• 01Patiala police used force against apprentice linemen protesting for recruitment preference, resulting in over 20 injuries.
• 02The police registered an FIR against the protesters for wrongful confinement and rioting after they allegedly blocked entry and exit gates.
• 03Political leaders across party lines condemned the police action, calling it a violation of human rights.
• 04The Punjab government was in discussions with protesters, but the situation escalated when they refused to clear the gates.
• 05Vikramjit Singh Sahney of the Central Apprenticeship Council offered alternative employment opportunities for the linemen.

The police's use of force against the linemen has raised concerns about the right to protest and the treatment of workers, impacting local sentiments and political dynamics.