An extensive search has been launched for Amritpal Singh, a controversial self-styled preacher who has been on the run since Saturday.
Since the search began, internet and messaging services have been suspended, and security has been tightened.
He supports the Khalistan movement for a separate Sikh homeland.
So far, several of his aides have been arrested by the police.
Earlier this month, Singh’s supporters stormed a police station demanding the release of an aide.
The police declared Singh a fugitive and launched a state-wide search for him. Traffic blockades were set up across the state to check vehicles.
After a dramatic chase, Singh was reported to have travelled in a cavalcade and dodged police near Shahkot-Mehatpur in Jalandhar.
Punjab’s self-styled preacher raises fears – Amritpal Singh
His associates livestreamed the chase through villages, according to the report and uploaded videos on social media urging supporters to gather near Jalandhar.
Several police vehicles followed Singh’s convoy after it was stopped at a checkpoint near Jalandhar.
Harjit Singh, who was part of the convoy and surrendered to police on Sunday night, told Indian Express that Singh was in the car with him as they headed to Moga district in Punjab.
As a result of a “heavy deployment of armed forces,” Singh changed cars and they changed routes.
A top police official told ANI news agency on Sunday that Singh escaped after being chased for 20-25km (12-15 miles).
In addition to illegal weapons and bullets, the police seized three cars allegedly used by Singh and his associates.
As well as Singh, seven of Singh’s aides had been arrested and a case had been filed against them.
Singh’s supporters who protested the arrest plan have also been detained by the police.
In London on Sunday, people carrying banners that said “Khalistan” protested outside the Indian High Commission. Videos showed a man detaching the Indian flag from the building’s balcony.
India summoned the UK’s most senior diplomat in Delhi and lodged a strong protest.
As per Report Singh’s legal adviser, Imaan Singh Khara, has claimed Singh was “illegally and forcibly” detained by the police and has approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court to demand Singh’s appearance.
By 21 March, the Punjab government must reply to the court.
In several areas, police have marched through the streets to “instil confidence in the public” and to urge them to maintain law and order.
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