Father of slain activist Parminder Jhota seeks security, vows to fight drugs
Parminder Singh Jhota's father appeals to PM Modi for family security, vowing to continue the fight against Punjab's drug menace despite the tragedy.
In a heart-wrenching plea following the brutal assassination of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota, his father has turned to the central leadership to save his remaining family. Amidst rising tensions in Mansa, the elderly man has appealed directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Home Minister, demanding urgent protection for his grandchildren.
The activist was shot dead in broad daylight, an incident that has sent shockwaves through Punjab and ignited a fierce political firestorm regarding the state's ability to protect those standing up against the narcotics trade.
"My grandchildren are at risk"
Speaking amidst intense protests, Jhota's father expressed a profound sense of betrayal by the local administration. He alleged that the Punjab government failed to provide any semblance of protection to his son, despite the known risks associated with his activism.
"The Punjab government did not provide him with any security. Nobody protected us. Now, even my grandchildren are at risk," the father stated, highlighting the vulnerability of the family left behind. He made a desperate call to the Union government to intervene and arrange for the safety of the children.
Despite the personal tragedy, the father showed remarkable resilience. He vowed that the mission to cleanse Punjab of narcotics would not die with his son. "We will continue fighting this war against drugs. As long as I am alive, I will also continue fighting against drugs in Punjab," he declared, adding that he is prepared to face any consequence, even stating he is ready to take a bullet himself.
Political storm erupts over law and order
The murder has become a central point of contention for opposition leaders, all of whom have launched scathing attacks on the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government. The criticism focuses on the alleged failure of the state's 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' (War Against Drugs) campaign.
Key political reactions include:
- Raja Warring (Former Punjab Congress President): Alleged that the daylight murder is a direct consequence of failed law and order machinery and claimed that Jhota’s efforts had received no support from the state.
- Sukhpal Singh Khaira (Congress Leader): Stated that the killing serves as proof of how powerful the drug mafia has become under the current administration.
- Sukhbir Badal (Shiromani Akali Dal President): Termed the murder a "stark reminder" that law and order has ceased to exist in Punjab, calling the government's anti-drug campaign a "gimmick" and accusing the leadership of criminal negligence.
- Ravneet Singh Bittu (BJP Leader): Criticised the breakdown of law and order, suggesting Punjab is currently gripped by fear and lawlessness.
Call for mass mobilization
The grieving father has called for a massive protest in Mansa, urging the people of Punjab to unite against the drug menace. He warned that unless a collective stand is taken, the youth of the state will continue to suffer under the weight of addiction and violence. The incident has left the community in Mansa reeling, as they grapple with the loss of a man who dared to challenge the powerful narcotics networks.