Did the Court's Ruling Prove Vigilance Acted on Solid Evidence Against Akali Leader Majithia?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The court's decision upholds the integrity of the Vigilance Bureau's evidence.
- Majithia's alleged connections to the drug trade have serious implications for Punjab's political landscape.
- The ongoing investigations could uncover major links between politics and organized crime.
- Vigilance Bureau's findings indicate a substantial illegal drug trade during the Akali Dal's rule.
- Political accountability is crucial as Punjab navigates its drug crisis.
Chandigarh, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has taken a strong stance against Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders following the Mohali district court's denial of bail for former minister Bikram Singh Majithia.
AAP MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and leader Baltej Pannu addressed the media, asserting that the court's ruling validates the Vigilance Bureau's actions were grounded in solid evidence, rather than being politically motivated.
Dhaliwal stated, “From the outset, leaders from the Akali Dal and certain Congress members have sought to mislead the public by portraying Majithia's arrest as an act of victimization. The court's recent decision has debunked their claims and confirmed that the Mann government possesses substantial evidence against Majithia.”
He emphasized that the Akali Dal must take accountability for the widespread drug trade during their governance from 2007 to 2017.
“During their administration, Punjab experienced a severe drug crisis. The public has witnessed Majithia's connections with Satta and Pindi. He was frequently seen in their company. Even now, Akali leaders dismiss these allegations as false. However, the court has clarified that the evidence is compelling, and the case is robust,” Dhaliwal remarked.
Regarding Majithia's associate Satta, Dhaliwal noted that Interpol has issued a Blue Corner Notice against him, and the Indian government is working with Canada to secure his extradition.
“Once Satta is returned to Punjab, a significant political upheaval will occur. His disclosures will unveil the entrenched connections between politicians and the drug mafia. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reiterated that several major figures remain at large,” Dhaliwal added.
He mentioned that Vigilance investigations have already revealed how drug networks worth thousands of crores flourished with political backing.
“They indicated that the illegal drug trade was valued at Rs 6,000 crore and that Majithia accumulated Rs 540 crore in disproportionate assets during that period. This illustrates the magnitude of the illicit operations that thrived under the Akali leadership,” Dhaliwal explained.
Supporting Dhaliwal’s statements, Pannu said, “Everyone is aware of Punjab's situation prior to 2007 and the developments from 2007 to 2017. Enormous sums were funneled into various companies, and opulent farmhouses spanning over 90 acres were acquired. The court's refusal to grant bail to Majithia followed a comprehensive 10-day deliberation, not merely a 10-minute hearing, which clearly indicates that the Vigilance acted solely based on evidence.”
The AAP leaders concluded that the court's ruling signifies a triumph for the government.