Punjab BJP flags rising murders, shootings; slams AAP over law and order
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Punjab President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Monday, 26 October raised sharp concerns over the alleged deterioration in law and order across Punjab, citing repeated incidents of murders and shootings and holding the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government responsible for the worsening security situation in the state.
Key Allegations
Speaking through a statement issued from the party office in Chandigarh, Dhillon alleged that daylight murders and shootings across Punjab have 'instilled fear among the ordinary man.' He pointed to a recent firing incident in Moga as evidence of what he described as a gap between the state government's claims and ground reality on law and order.
Dhillon further alleged that 23 police stations in Punjab have witnessed grenade attacks, and that serious incidents — including a reported attack on the police headquarters using a rocket launcher — have taken place. He claimed that police officers have reportedly been compelled to issue written instructions to their personnel advising them against venturing outside in uniform.
Security Infrastructure Under Strain
According to Dhillon, protective nets are being installed outside police stations and boundary walls are being heightened — developments he described as raising 'serious questions' about the state's security arrangements. Critics argue these measures reflect a reactive posture rather than a proactive crime-prevention strategy.
Attack on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
The BJP leader trained his guns directly on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, alleging that while Punjab grapples with crime and lawlessness, the CM 'remains occupied with foreign tours.' In a pointed remark, Dhillon said, 'Instead of prioritising the safety and security of the people of Punjab, the Chief Minister appears more concerned about his birthday.' He also referenced a reported controversy involving alleged customs duty being imposed on Mann's belongings upon his return from abroad, though details of this claim could not be independently verified.
BJP's Demands
Dhillon demanded that the AAP government take strict action against criminals, strengthen the police force, and ensure citizen safety across the state. He said the law and order situation had deteriorated to 'an alarming level' and called on the government to take 'concrete and effective steps' to restore public confidence rather than 'shirk its responsibilities.' The AAP government is yet to respond formally to these specific allegations.