India, March 24 -- Punjab Police have announced that 800 of the 1,400 farmers taken into custody after the March 19 crackdown on protesters have been released and 450 more would walk free on Monday.

"800 farmers have already been released. It has been decided to release women over 60 years of age and those with medical conditions as well. Around 450 more farmers are expected to be released today (Monday)," Punjab Police inspector general (IG) Sukhchain Singh Gill posted on X.

He issued helpline number 90713-00002 on which farmers could report missing items. "Taking a strict stance on the issue of stolen belongings of farmers, Punjab Police have registered three FIRs and appointed Patiala SP Jasbir Singh as the nodal officer," he said. ...