Mohali-
Senior Congress leader and former Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu expressed grief and concern over the shooting and killing of young Parvinder Jhota in Mansa and criticised the Bhagwant Mann government, stating that the law-and-order situation in Punjab has become extremely alarming. The murder of a young man who raised his voice against drugs raises serious questions about the government’s security arrangements. A government that claims to be eliminating drugs has failed even to ensure the safety of those fighting against the drug menace. He questioned who would take responsibility for the safety of ordinary citizens when even those fighting against drugs are not safe.
Balbir Singh Sidhu said that every family in Punjab is now questioning how effective the Bhagwant Mann government’s ‘War Against Drugs’ campaign really is. The drug menace cannot be eliminated merely through slogans, advertisements and political statements. It requires strict action against drug traffickers, accountability within the police administration and adequate protection for those fighting against drugs. He said that instead of patting itself on the back, the government must confront the ground realities.
Referring to the incident involving young Mohanjit Singh from Sheron village in Sangrur, he said that the alleged police assault on the youth, who raised the issue of drugs during the Chief Minister’s public interaction programme, raises serious questions about democratic values. Every citizen has the right to disagree with government policies and demand answers. Instead of suppressing people’s voices, the government should address their concerns and ensure an impartial investigation into such incidents.
Referring to the case of Gulzar Singh, Balbir Singh Sidhu said that Gulzar Singh’s son was struggling with drug addiction, which had caused his father immense distress and prompted him to raise his voice against drugs. He alleged that Gulzar Singh was harassed to such an extent that he consumed sulphas poison and ended his life. In this case, Gulzar Singh had accused Aam Aadmi Party minister Harpal Singh Cheema of intimidating and threatening him. These allegations must be investigated impartially. He said that the case was deeply tragic and the government must learn from it so that no person raising their voice against drugs has to face fear, intimidation or pressure.
In conclusion, Balbir Singh Sidhu demanded an impartial investigation into the murder of Parvinder Jhota and strict punishment for those found guilty. He also called for adequate protection for people who raise their voices against drugs. He said that instead of using the drug issue for political publicity, the Punjab government must take concrete action. The lives of Punjab’s youth and the safety of its people must not be compromised. The Congress Party will continue its fight to protect the rights of the people of Punjab and to combat the drug menace.