Are MLAs Who Biked Now Driving Luxury Cars? Punjab BJP Chief Calls for HC Investigation into Drug Money Trail

Chandigarh, June 16 (NationPress) In a bold move, state BJP chief Sunil Jakhar has called for a High Court Chief Justice-monitored investigation into the drug money trail, highlighting the hypocrisy of Punjab legislators who once rode bicycles but now flaunt luxury vehicles. In a letter directed to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Jakhar emphasized, “To restore credibility and demonstrate a genuine commitment to eradicating the drug mafia from Punjab, it is crucial to trace the financial flow behind the drug money trail.”

He requested the intervention of Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Sheel Nagu to establish a credible and ‘time-bound’ investigation, potentially involving multiple agencies, to identify the ultimate beneficiaries of drug trafficking.

“Merely apprehending thousands of drug users and minor offenders will not suffice to eliminate the drug crisis. The financial channels must be traced to capture the key players, including politicians from various parties and officials. Without this fundamental step, the government's assertions about combating drugs in Punjab will appear disingenuous,” Jakhar stated, highlighting that the drug cartels in the region have thrived due to ongoing patronage.

Jakhar pointed out that the recovery of narcotics in Punjab amounts to several thousand crores, indicating deep-rooted corruption. He further noted, “The dramatic increase in wealth among various Punjab politicians over the past few years raises significant questions regarding the origin of their income.”

Without directly naming individuals, Jakhar remarked, “The MLAs who used to cycle now possess luxury cars worth crores, with many owning expansive farmhouses.”

“Given the substantial sums involved in the drug money trail, the investigation could be conducted by the Enforcement Directorate or any agency deemed suitable by the Chief Justice. Relying solely on the routine filing of income tax returns by MLAs and others is inadequate, as there is a stark discrepancy between their declared incomes and the reality,” Jakhar asserted.

The BJP chief insisted that ministers, MLAs, party presidents, and leaders from all affiliations should be included in the investigative process, stating his willingness to be the first to be scrutinized to demonstrate his and his party's commitment to transparency.

“The Chief Minister must prioritize reaching out to the esteemed Chief Justice to initiate a thorough inquiry by an appropriate agency. Such an investigation should occur under the Chief Justice's supervision to effectively trace the financial flow to the ultimate beneficiaries of the drug trade,” the BJP president emphasized.

He cautioned that it is essential for the judiciary and the executive to operate independently, which is why the CM should formally request the Chief Justice to oversee the investigation into the financial aspects of the drug money trail.”

“In addition to the drug money trail, the investigation should also cover illicit funds related to mining and the sand mafia, ensuring accountability for those involved,” Jakhar concluded.