India, May 26 -- Onkar Singh, a former officer on special duty (OSD) to chief minister Bhagwant Mann, was detained by the police in Dhuri on Tuesday while local civic elections were underway.

Sangrur senior superintendent of police (SSP) Ravjot Grewal confirmed the detention, stating it was a preventive measure taken after Onkar Singh, who switched to the BJP in January, was caught actively campaigning for the saffron party during the mandatory election "silent period." The silent period is the legally mandated 48-hour window before the close of voting when all public rallies, loudspeaker addresses, and active electioneering must strictly cease to ensure a free and fair polling environment.

"The action follows orders from the Sangrur de...