National Safai Karamchari Commission seeks report from Punjab over Barnala protest clash
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 22, 2026: The National Safai Karamchari Commission (NSKC) has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports alleging police use of force during the ongoing sanitation workers' protest in Punjab's Barnala and has sought a detailed report from the Punjab government within seven days.
In a letter to Punjab Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, NSKC Vice-Chairperson Hardeep Singh Gill directed the state to conduct an immediate, impartial and transparent inquiry into the incident and submit a fact-based report to the Commission.
The Commission said the allegations of police action against protesting sanitation workers are serious and stressed that safeguarding the rights and dignity of sanitation workers is a constitutional responsibility. It noted that sanitation workers are among the most vulnerable sections of society and their rights must be protected in accordance with Supreme Court directives.
The NSKC also said it would examine the role of the Barnala Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and the district police within its jurisdiction. It asked the Chief Secretary to obtain a detailed report from the Director General of Police (DGP) on the alleged use of force and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Gill also called for the protection of sanitation workers' rights, dignity and safety, and said strict action should be taken against any official found guilty after the inquiry. He further urged the Punjab government to initiate constructive dialogue with representatives of the protesting workers to ensure an early and peaceful resolution of the issue.
The Commission said it would continue to monitor the matter, if required, and reiterated that any compromise on the rights and dignity of sanitation workers would not be tolerated.