Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has described anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in Mansa, Punjab, as a martyr and called for justice for his family. Meanwhile, actor Neeru Bajwa has decided to temporarily halt the screening of her recently released Punjabi film ‘Thapi’ following public anger over Jhota’s killing.
 

Dosanjh shared a photograph of Jhota on his Instagram account on Sunday. In his message, he referred to the activist as “Shaheed Parvinder Singh” and said Punjab stood with his family during the difficult time. He also called for justice for the bereaved family.
 

Jhota was known for raising his voice against the illegal sale of intoxicating substances from chemist shops. He was shot dead inside a medical store in a crowded market in Mansa on October 13.
 

According to the report, medical store owner Ashwani Kumar allegedly opened fire on Jhota after the activist questioned him about selling intoxicating medicines to an elderly man. The accused was taken into custody from Salasar in Rajasthan.
 

The shooting took place while Jhota was broadcasting a Facebook Live session.
 

Six days after the killing, Jhota’s post-mortem examination and cremation had not taken place. His family members and supporters have been protesting in Mansa and have refused to perform the last rites until justice is secured.
 

A joint action committee comprising various organisations and social activists has been pressing for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder. Its demands also include the resignations of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav.
 

Neeru Bajwa Suspends ‘Thapi’ Screening
 

Amid the public anger following Jhota’s killing, actor Neeru Bajwa announced on Sunday that she had decided to temporarily stop the screening of her new Punjabi film ‘Thapi’. The film was released in theatres on October 16.
 

In a Facebook post, Bajwa said Punjab and Punjabi identity had played a central role in shaping who they were. She explained that the film was made with the aim of bringing renewed activity and prosperity to Punjab’s agricultural fields.
 

“Cinema is for the people. It can never be bigger than the people,” she said.
 

Bajwa also expressed solidarity with Punjab, saying she and her team had stood with the state, continued to stand with it, and would do so in the future.
 

Babbu Maan Joins Protest in Mansa
 

Punjabi singer Babbu Maan also attended the protest in Mansa on Sunday. He praised Jhota for his efforts in fighting against drug abuse.
 

The killing has drawn expressions of solidarity from prominent figures in Punjab’s entertainment industry, while Jhota’s family and supporters continue to demand justice.