Amit Shah targets Mann govt over Jhota murder, Dirba suicide; MHA to seek Punjab's response
New Delhi, Oct 16 (UNI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday criticised the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over Punjab's law and order situation, citing the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa and the alleged suicide of a father in Dirba.
He also announced that the union Home Ministry would seek a response from the state government on both incidents. In a social media post, Shah accused the Mann government of failing to curb drug-related activities, gangsterism and organised crime, raising questions about accountability for public safety in the state. "Punjab is grappling today with the rising threats of drugs, gangsterism, and organized crime. The biggest question before the Bhagwant Mann government is: ultimately, who will bear the responsibility for the safety of Punjab's people?" Shah said, according to an English translation of his post. Referring to the two incidents, Shah said the death of a father who allegedly consumed poison under pressure in Dirba and the broad-daylight murder of Jhota, who had raised his voice against drug trafficking, had raised serious questions about the state's law and order situation.
He said Jhota's father had levelled grave allegations against the AAP government and one of its MLAs, adding that the union Home Ministry would seek responses from the Punjab government regarding both incidents. The Home Minister alleged that drug trafficking and organised criminal activities were increasing in Punjab, while the safety of those speaking out against the drug trade had become a matter of serious concern. Addressing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directly, Shah said, "Bhagwant Mann ji, the people of Punjab do not want promises-they want answers; not announcements, but results; decisive strikes against drug networks; and an impartial investigation into any political patronage received by criminals."
He also reiterated the BJP's commitment to making Punjab free from drugs and gangsterism if the party comes to power in the state. "Today, I reiterate my resolve before the people of Punjab that, upon forming our government in Punjab, we will work with full force to create a drug-free, gangster-free, and secure Punjab," Shah said.
The Home Minister said the party's objective was to dismantle drug networks, protect young people from narcotics, ensure stringent action against criminals and establish a system in which citizens could live without fear. Jhota's murder has triggered protests and demands for an impartial investigation, with his family seeking a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and action against those allegedly involved.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had earlier condemned the killing and assured stringent action against those responsible. However, an immediate response from the Punjab government to Shah's latest allegations was not available. The allegations of political patronage and wrongdoing levelled in connection with the incidents remain unproven.
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