Parvinder Jhota Murder: 2 Punjab Officials Suspended as CBI Takes Over
Two Punjab officials are suspended as the CBI takes over the Parvinder Jhota murder investigation. Read the latest on the anti-drug activist's killing.
The investigation into the brutal killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Jhota murder probe has escalated significantly, leading to the suspension of two high-ranking officials in Punjab and the formal entry of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the case.
Forensic Evidence and Administrative Crackdown
On Wednesday, teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) descended upon the crime scene in Mansa to collect critical evidence and samples. This scientific sweep coincides with a major administrative shake-up. Police sources have confirmed the suspension of DSP Harjinder Singh Gill and Drug Inspector Naresh Kumar.
The disciplinary action stems from grave allegations leveled by the victim's family. They claim that both the DSP and the Drug Inspector were in collusion with the primary accused, Ashwani Kumar. In a chilling detail, the family alleged that Parvinder Jhota had contacted the DSP on the day of the murder, yet the officer failed to arrive at the scene to provide assistance.
The Horrific Crime
The incident occurred on October 13, 2026, in the Mansa district. Parvinder Jhota, a 45-year-old activist known for his fight against narcotics, was shot dead inside a chemist shop. In a digital tragedy, the killing took place while Jhota was live-streaming on Facebook, capturing the moments of the attack for his viewers.
The primary suspect, medical store owner Ashwani Kumar, was subsequently tracked down and arrested in Rajasthan. The CBI has now registered an FIR naming Kumar and several other unidentified individuals as accused in the murder.
Political Firestorm and CBI Intervention
The case has sparked widespread protests by Jhota's family, who remained steadfast in their demand for a federal probe. Their persistence led to a visit from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on October 20. Shortly after, a CBI team arrived in Mansa late at night to register the FIR based on statements from the bereaved family.
However, the investigation has not remained free from political friction. Pargat Singh, President of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC), has criticized the Union Home Minister's visit. While Singh stated he does not oppose the family's request for a CBI probe, he accused the BJP of making empty promises for over a decade.
Allegations Over Drug Trafficking
Taking a swipe at the BJP's record, Pargat Singh questioned the party's ability to control drug abuse, specifically pointing toward Gujarat where the party has held power for nearly 30 years. He further alleged that medicinal drugs are being smuggled into Punjab from states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, suggesting a systemic failure in controlling the narcotics trade.
The investigation now rests with the CBI, as they delve deeper into the nexus between the accused and the suspended officials to uncover the full conspiracy behind the activist's death.