"No one will be let off hook": Punjab AAP on anti-drug activist murder case
AAP defends Punjab administration's response to the murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota as political leaders clash over law and order.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab has issued a strong defense of the state administration following the high-profile murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Addressing the incident, AAP leaders asserted that the legal process is moving swiftly and that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal activities.
AAP maintains zero-tolerance policy
Punjab AAP General Secretary Baltej Pannu stated that the administration has acted decisively, noting that arrests were made within the stipulated timeframe. He emphasized that the state government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has consistently maintained a policy where no political leader or official obstructs justice, regardless of their affiliation.
"If someone takes the law into their own hands as the individual from Mansa did, the police do their job," Pannu told ANI. He further noted that the prime accused was arrested within 24 hours of the incident. Pannu appealed to the public to allow the legal system to function, promising that "no one will be let off the hook" as investigations into all involved parties continue.
Political clash over Punjab law and order
The incident has sparked a fierce political confrontation. Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon slammed the state administration, describing the daylight murder of an activist as evidence of "jungle raj" in the state. Dhillon further alleged systemic collusion between the government and police, citing recent reports of heroin seizures involving a Punjab ASI as proof of a deeper crisis.
Dhillon highlighted the urgency of the drug menace, referencing a campaign concluded by Home Minister Amit Shah, which aims to eradicate the drug problem entirely by March 2029.
NHRC raises alarm over activist safety
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed grave concern over the rising risks faced by individuals confronting criminal syndicates. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo described the murder as a sign of failing law and order, suggesting that drug mafias are becoming bold enough to silence voices through violence.
Kanoongo warned that the current drug crisis threatens to push Punjab back into a state of instability similar to the era of terrorism. "This is a sign of lawlessness: people raising their voices against drugs are being shot dead," Kanoongo stated.
The NHRC has officially issued notices to the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Chief Secretary, demanding a detailed report on the situation. The commission emphasized that the state government holds the ultimate responsibility for protecting citizens who dare to stand up against the drug trade.
Chief Minister assures strict punishment
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann described the killing of Parminder Singh Jhota as an unfortunate incident. He has directed the DGP to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the truth is brought to light and that those responsible face the strictest possible punishment under the law.