Sikh hardliner preacher arrested

Police today arrested Sikh hardliner Sant Baljit Singh Daduwal from Bathinda for his alleged involvement in inciting religious violence through his speeches in Punjab and Haryana.

Daduwal had sought permission from Bathinda district administration to organise a congregation and 'langar' (community kitchen) at Damdama Sahib on the occasion of Baisakhi festival, official sources said.

The administration, however, denied the permission.

Meanwhile, a scuffle broke out today between the supporters of Daduwal and Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee officials at Bathinda, sources said.

Sensing trouble, Daduwal was arrested, police said.