Chandigarh, October 13: The killing of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Punjab’s Mansa district has triggered a political controversy, with opposition leaders accusing the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of failing to maintain law and order and curb the drug menace.
Former Punjab Congress president Raja Warring criticised the state government, alleging that Jhota’s killing exposed the failure of its law-and-order machinery and the anti-drug campaign, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’.
In a post on X, Warring expressed condolences to Jhota’s family and supporters, alleging that the activist had not received adequate support from the government. He also recalled meeting Jhota’s father and family when the activist was allegedly falsely implicated in a case and arrested in 2023.
Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira also targeted the AAP government, claiming that the incident highlighted the growing influence of the drug mafia in Punjab. He alleged that the government’s anti-drug campaign had failed to deliver meaningful results.
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia alleged that Jhota was shot while recording drug dealers on camera. He said the activist had been fighting against drug abuse in Mansa.
Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal also condemned the killing, accusing the state government of criminal negligence. He alleged that the administration had failed to provide adequate support to the activist despite his efforts to raise awareness about the drug menace.
Badal further criticised the government’s ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, describing it as ineffective and calling for accountability over the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state.
BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu also attacked the state government, alleging that Punjab was facing growing lawlessness. Questioning Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s handling of the Home portfolio, Bittu said the government had failed to ensure the safety of citizens.
Meanwhile, AAP leader Baltej Pannu condemned the killing and said strict action would be taken against those responsible. He stated that no one would be allowed to take the law into their own hands and indicated that the alleged accused was a medical shop owner.
According to reports, Jhota, known for his activism against drugs in Mansa, sustained bullet injuries after being shot by a medical shop owner. He was rushed to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
The incident has intensified the political debate over drug trafficking and law enforcement in Punjab, with opposition parties demanding accountability from the state government. The allegations levelled by opposition leaders remain political claims, while the case and the circumstances surrounding the killing are subject to investigation.
