R-Day Venue Shifted to Patiala After Pro-Khalistan Graffiti at Faridkot

Chandigarh : Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will now unfurl the Tricolour at Patiala’s Polo Ground on Republic Day, following a security breach in Faridkot. The event was initially slated to take place at the Nehru Sports Stadium in Faridkot, where pro-Khalistan graffiti appeared on Thursday morning.

The Polo Ground in Patiala has been a preferred venue for high-profile functions in recent years due to enhanced security provisions. The decision comes after the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) claimed responsibility for the graffiti and issued inflammatory threats, urging youth to display Khalistan flags instead of the national flag.

Faridkot police have registered a case against SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and unidentified accomplices under multiple sections, including the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act. Khalistan flags were confiscated, and the graffiti was painted over. Investigations are underway, with officers working to identify the culprits.

Meanwhile, Water Resource Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal will now preside over Republic Day celebrations in Mohali, as confirmed by official orders.

Stay updated for further developments on Republic Day celebrations in Punjab.