Is law and order in Punjab deteriorating after the murder of AAP leader?
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New Delhi, Feb 6 (NationPress) The assassination of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Lucky Oberoi in Punjab has sparked intense political outcry, prompting leaders from various parties to express grave concerns regarding the worsening law and order situation in the region.
In response to the tragic event, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi described the incident as “extremely unfortunate” and voiced hopes that the Punjab administration would swiftly implement stringent measures.
“It is extremely unfortunate, and I hope that the ongoing deterioration in Punjab will be addressed. Law and order is evidently not being upheld, and I trust that the Chief Minister will act decisively to ensure that those accountable face the harshest penalties promptly,” Chaturvedi remarked to IANS.
Adding to the discourse, Congress MP Dharamvira Gandhi painted a bleak picture of Punjab's situation, accusing the AAP government of failing to suppress criminal activities and gangsterism.
“The law and order situation in Punjab is alarmingly poor. Since the AAP took office, cases of robbery, threats, and murders have surged alarmingly. Punjab is transforming into the Bihar of yesteryears,” Gandhi stated to IANS.
He further criticized the government for its ineffective response to criminality. “This administration has not managed to contain gangsterism. Instead of taking actionable steps, it continuously draws comparisons to incidents from 70 years ago. This is both regrettable and disgraceful,” he added.
Referring to notorious past incidents, Gandhi remarked, “A murder akin to that of Sidhu Moosewala occurred, and the perpetrator was interviewed while incarcerated. We are profoundly worried about our state. Punjab was once synonymous with progress and peace, but those days are behind us.”
Meanwhile, authorities provided insights into the incident, revealing that the shooting transpired in broad daylight in a bustling area of Jalandhar.
ADCP-II Harinder Singh Gill stated, “This morning, outside the Model Town Gurdwara, Lucky Oberoi was shot in the parking area. Two assailants on a scooter opened fire. Shortly after, Lucky Oberoi succumbed to his injuries. An FIR has been lodged, and the investigation is in progress.”
As per officials, initial reports indicate that two individuals on a motorcycle discharged multiple rounds at Oberoi, striking him with at least five bullets while he was seated in his vehicle.
The shooting, which occurred outside a Gurdwara in the crowded Model Town area, incited panic among local residents. Police teams promptly arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area, and initiated a manhunt to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the assassination. Security measures have since been intensified in the vicinity.
According to party sources, Oberoi had close ties to constituency in-charge Rajwinder Kaur Thiara. His wife previously contested municipal elections on an AAP ticket but was unsuccessful.