Anti-Drug Activist Parminder Singh Jhota Shot Dead in Mansa
Punjab Finance Minister condemns the murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa, citing personal enmity as the motive.
In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through Punjab, prominent anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota was shot dead in Mansa. The activist, who was widely recognized for his dedicated efforts to combat the drug menace in the region, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to a hospital.
Finance Minister Condemns Violence
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema expressed strong condemnation regarding the killing, emphasizing that vigilantism has no place in a civilized society. While acknowledging the existence of a long-standing dispute between the deceased and the accused, Cheema maintained that legal processes must be followed.
"I condemn the incident that took place in Mansa... No one is permitted to take the law into their own hands. Anyone who takes the law into their own hands will face strict punishment," Cheema stated on Tuesday.
The Minister further noted that the culprit has already been apprehended by the authorities.
Police Investigation: Personal Enmity Suspected
Preliminary investigations conducted by the Punjab Police suggest that the murder was not a direct consequence of Jhota's activism, but rather the result of personal enmity. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harjeet Singh provided critical details regarding the attack during a briefing.
According to the police, the primary suspect is a local medical shop owner identified as Ashwani. The investigation revealed the following details:
- The suspect, Ashwani, allegedly used a licensed pistol to carry out the shooting.
- The motive appears to be rooted in a personal grudge rather than the activist's social work.
- Police have already arrested one associate of the suspect.
- Family members of the accused have been detained for intensive interrogation.
DIG Singh confirmed that multiple specialized teams have been formed to ensure the prime suspect is brought to justice swiftly.
Political Storm and Law & Order Concerns
The murder has ignited a fierce political battle in Punjab, with opposition leaders targeting the Bhagwant Mann-led administration. Former Punjab Congress president Raja Warring launched a scathing attack on social media, linking the incident to the state's perceived failure in maintaining order.
Warring alleged that the daylight murder was a direct consequence of the government's failed "Yudh Nashean Virudh" campaign and a breakdown in the state's law and order machinery. The opposition is questioning whether the government's drive against drugs is actually effective if those fighting the menace are being targeted.
A Father's Plea for Security
The tragedy has left a grieving family in fear. In a heart-wrenching appeal, the father of the deceased activist reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He expressed deep concern for the safety of his remaining grandchildren, claiming the state government failed to provide adequate protection to his son.
"The Punjab government did not provide him with any security. Nobody protected us. Now, even my grandchildren are at risk," the father stated, requesting central intervention to ensure the safety of his family.
Despite the immense personal loss, the elder Jhota vowed that the struggle would not end with his son. He declared his intention to continue raising his voice against the drug epidemic in Punjab for as long as he lives.