Watch | Punjab’s Faridkot turns violent after ‘desecration’ of holy book

Members of several Sikh groups protesting against the alleged desecration of their holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, clashed with police in Faridkot district of Punjab on Wednesday, leaving at least 15 people injured. The clash erupted in the main square of Kotkapura when police tried to arrest the leaders of the protestors. The protestors also tried to block highways leading to Moga and Bathinda towns. Police used batons and water cannons and fired in the air to disperse members of the Sikh groups who gathered in Kotkapura of Faridkot district early on Wednesday to protest the act of sacrilege in Bargari village. Several policemen were among the injured. The situation in Faridkot district is tense but under control, officials said. A strong police contingent has been deployed in the area to maintain law and order.