Despite the recent ceasefire between ਭਾਰਤ and Pakistan, the Faridkot ਜ਼ਿਲ੍ਹਾ administration has directed all ਪਿੰਡ panchayats to stay alert and enforce night vigil as a precautionary measure.
Villages have been asked to implement ‘Thikri Pehra’, a traditional system of community night patrol under the ਪੰਜਾਬ Small Town Patrol Act, 1918. This colonial-era law allows local residents to take charge of their own security, especially during times of limited ਪੁਲਿਸ presence.
According to the order, villagers must patrol from 7 pm to 5 am, prevent unlawful gatherings, and ensure blackout rules are followed. Panchayat secretaries are responsible for forming patrolling groups and reporting daily activities to the ਜ਼ਿਲ੍ਹਾ authorities.
A senior official from the ਜ਼ਿਲ੍ਹਾ Development and Panchayats Office said Thikri Pehra not only strengthens security but also promotes community cooperation and responsibility.
Historically, Thikri Pehras were used to protect rural communities from theft, robbery, and outside threats by having villagers take turns guarding entry points and patrolling streets.
Officials believe combining this traditional system with modern emergency planning will help maintain public safety, coordination, and social unity in the region.
