Amit Shah Targets Mann Govt Over Jhota Murder, Dirba Suicide; MHA to Seek Punjab's Response

New Delhi, Oct 16 : 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. Shah said the Union Home Ministry would seek a response from the Punjab government regarding both incidents.

In a social media post, Shah accused the state government of failing to tackle drug trafficking, gangsterism and organised crime, questioning its accountability for ensuring public safety.

“Punjab is grappling today with the rising threats of drugs, gangsterism, and organised 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.

Referring to the two incidents, the Home Minister 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 concerns about the state's law and order situation.

Shah said Jhota's father had levelled serious allegations against the AAP government and one of its MLAs. He added that the Union Home Ministry would seek an explanation from the state government regarding both cases.

Alleging that drug trafficking and organised criminal activities were increasing in Punjab, Shah said the safety of people speaking out against the drug trade had become a matter of serious concern.

Addressing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directly, Shah said the people of Punjab wanted answers and concrete results rather than promises and announcements. He called for decisive action against drug networks and an impartial investigation into any alleged political patronage extended to criminals.

Shah also reiterated the BJP's commitment to making Punjab free from drugs and gangsterism if the party came to power in the state.

He said the party would work 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. His family has sought a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and action against those allegedly involved in the killing.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had earlier condemned the murder and assured stringent action against those responsible.

An immediate response from the Punjab government to Shah's latest allegations was not available. The allegations of political patronage and wrongdoing linked to the two incidents remain unproven.

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