Punjab: Heated Exchange Ignites Over LoP's Claims of Bombs in State
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Synopsis
A heated exchange in Punjab arises between Congress and AAP over LoP Pratap Singh Bajwa's statement about bombs in the state. AAP leaders challenge his claims while Bajwa defends his position and calls for public safety.
Key Takeaways
- LoP Bajwa claims 50 bombs in Punjab, 18 detonated.
- AAP leaders demand accountability for false claims.
- Chief Minister Mann challenges Bajwa to provide details.
- Congress criticizes AAP's intimidation tactics.
- Police interrogates Bajwa regarding his statements.
Chandigarh, April 13 (NationPress) A heated exchange has ignited in Punjab between Congress and AAP following remarks made by the Leader of the Opposition (LoP), Pratap Singh Bajwa, who stated that 50 bombs have arrived in Punjab, with 18 having detonated.
AAP's senior leader and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema responded, emphasizing that Bajwa holds a vital constitutional role and should avoid spreading false information. “If Bajwa possesses such information, he must immediately report it to the police. Otherwise, it may be assumed that he has connections with Pakistani gangsters who aim to disrupt peace and order in Punjab,” Cheema asserted.
In reply to the accusations from AAP, Bajwa defended his position, stating that as the Leader of Opposition, he has access to sensitive information. “I act responsibly for public safety when expressing such concerns. Unfortunately, instead of addressing these issues, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann threatened me with repercussions this very morning. I will not be intimidated; my commitment is to the people of Punjab and the Constitution, not to a vengeful government,” Bajwa remarked.
Chief Minister Mann challenged Bajwa and Congress to identify the specific locations of these bombs. He warned that if they fail to do so, police action might be warranted against the LoP for spreading false information and inciting public panic.
State Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring criticized the AAP government for attempting to silence and intimidate the LoP for raising security issues in the state. “Don’t shoot the messenger, Mann sahib. Partap Singh Bajwa is a responsible leader with a constitutional role. If he has shared information, utilize your police and intelligence to investigate it,” Warring stated.
Warring emphasized, “The concerns raised by Bajwa are legitimate.” He noted the frequency of grenade attacks and criticized the AAP government for being clueless about security matters. “The intensity of this situation is unacceptable and highly condemnable,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Cheema confirmed that police have interrogated the LoP regarding his claims. “If his statements are proven to be false, he will face legal consequences,” Cheema warned. He also urged the Congress to take action against Bajwa and consider removing him from his position.
AAP spokesperson Neel Garg challenged Bajwa, questioning why he had not informed the Punjab Police or central security agencies about this information earlier. “If he had this sensitive information, why keep it hidden for so long?” Garg asked, further insinuating that Bajwa's access to such information could indicate ties to Pakistan or suggest he is part of a conspiracy.
He called upon Congress leadership, particularly Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, to clarify this situation and initiate an inquiry into the LoP’s statements. Earlier that day, Punjab Police had questioned the LoP regarding his controversial remarks.
