Despite the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, the Faridkot district administration has directed all village 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 Punjab Small Town Patrol Act, 1918. This colonial-era law allows local residents to take charge of their own security, especially during times of limited police 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 district authorities.
A senior official from the District 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.
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