Is Majithia’s Arrest a Game-Changer in Punjab’s Drug Battle?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Majithia's arrest is seen as a significant move in the fight against drugs.
- AAP ministers emphasize political neutrality in drug-related cases.
- The drug crisis peaked during the SAD-BJP governance.
- Families affected by drugs view this as a positive change.
- Accountability in politics is now being questioned.
New Delhi, June 25 (NationPress) The apprehension of ex-Punjab minister and prominent Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) official Bikram Singh Majithia on Wednesday has elicited fervent responses from Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ministers in the state, who have labeled the action a significant stride in the government's relentless campaign against the drug crisis.
In a statement regarding the arrest, Punjab’s Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, informed IANS, “AAP, our national leader Arvind Kejriwal, and CM Bhagwant Mann pledged to the citizens of Punjab in 2022 to eliminate the drug menace. This arrest is a progressive step towards that goal. Our battle against drugs is devoid of political biases — regardless of party affiliation or position, anyone found guilty will face consequences.”
Dhaliwal emphasized that the apex of the drug crisis in Punjab occurred from 2007 to 2017, coinciding with the governance of the SAD-BJP coalition.
“In November 2013, following the arrest of Jagdish Bhola, he implicated Majithia, yet Badal Saheb remained quiet. This silence spoke volumes,” he remarked.
Similarly, Punjab’s Minister of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Lal Chand Kataruchakk, termed the arrest “historic”.
“Punjab is a sacred land, and those who have tainted it with drugs will face repercussions. CM Bhagwant Mann has exhibited formidable political resolve by detaining Majithia,” he asserted.
Kataruchakk also criticized the previous Congress-led administration for their inaction. “Everyone in Punjab is aware that Majithia is already confronting NDPS charges. Why did Congress remain inactive? What was their connection with him?” he questioned.
Referring to it as a “bold move” by CM Mann, the minister stated that families devastated by drug abuse have embraced the action.
“If Majithia is innocent, the courts will determine that. However, retired DSP Jagdish Bhola had explicitly stated years ago that Majithia was their leader. That assertion cannot be overlooked,” he added.
Majithia's detention signifies a pivotal moment in Punjab’s anti-drug initiative, indicating that the CM Mann-led administration is prepared to take decisive action against anyone, regardless of political ties.