Political tensions peak in Punjab as Amit Shah prepares to meet families of anti-drug activists

Political tensions in Punjab escalated sharply on Monday ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's scheduled visit on October 20.

Scheduled Visits

Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon stated that Mr. Shah will meet the families of several individuals who died following their opposition to the state's drug problem. These include the family of anti-drug crusader Parminder Singh Jhotta in Mansa, the family of Gulzar Singh in Toor Banjara village in Sangrur district, and the family of Bikramjit Singh in Mari Panwan village in Gurdaspur district. Mr. Dhillon added that the visit brings renewed hope to victims' families who are seeking real action and justice.

Political Clashes

Ahead of the visit, Mr. Shah criticized the ruling AAP government on social media, accusing them of enabling drug dealers and stating that the administration pushed Punjab into a drug crisis that cost many families their children. In response, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal slammed the BJP over a recent attack on actor Tiger Shroff claimed by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Mr. Kejriwal argued that a party failing to manage law and order in its own states has no right to lecture Punjab, alleging that gangsters receive protection and facilities.

Calls for Investigation

Meanwhile, senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal wrote a letter to the Home Minister urging a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into Mr. Jhotta's murder. She also demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged nexus between politicians, police, and the drug trade in Punjab, noting that police had not acted upon statements given by Mr. Jhotta's father, Bhim Singh.

Context

Drug trafficking and the safety of anti-drug crusaders remain major political issues in Punjab, often drawing sharp rivalry between state and national parties. High-profile visits by central leaders frequently spark intense debates over law enforcement, jurisdiction, and accountability in tackling organized crime and narcotics networks.