The Punjabi diaspora across the globe is increasingly concerned about the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, with many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) reportedly reconsidering or postponing their plans to visit the state. For a community that maintains deep emotional, cultural and family ties with Punjab, growing concerns about safety are becoming a serious issue.
The latest incident of indiscriminate firing at a pizza outlet in Ludhiana’s upscale BRS Nagar has once again raised serious questions over the effectiveness of the state’s law-and-order machinery. If gunfire can erupt even in a prominent and relatively affluent area of Ludhiana, the incident inevitably raises concerns about the security of ordinary residents, business owners and visitors.
The incident has also added to growing anxiety among Punjabis living abroad who regularly travel to Punjab to meet their families, attend social and religious events and manage their businesses and properties. Many NRIs are now asking a basic question: Can Punjab guarantee the safety of its residents and visitors?
Critics of the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann argue that repeated incidents of violence, shootings and criminal activity are damaging public confidence. They say the government must move beyond political messaging and publicity campaigns and focus on strengthening policing, intelligence gathering, investigation and accountability.
The concern is not limited to one incident or one city. When people begin to fear travelling freely, visiting markets or allowing their families to move around without anxiety, it reflects a much deeper crisis of public confidence. Law and order is among the most fundamental responsibilities of any elected government.
For the Punjabi diaspora, Punjab is not merely a place of birth or ancestral property—it is home. But if NRIs begin postponing visits because of security concerns, the consequences could extend beyond tourism and family travel. Businesses, investment, property management and the wider relationship between Punjab and its global diaspora could also be affected.
The Punjab government must therefore treat the growing concerns with seriousness and transparency. Instead of relying on slogans, the public needs visible action, stronger policing and clear accountability whenever serious crimes occur.
Punjab needs action, not sloganeering; policing, not publicity. The people of Punjab—and the millions of Punjabis watching from around the world—are waiting to see whether the government can restore confidence in the state’s streets.Punjab is watching. The diaspora is watching. And the demand is simple: people should be able to live, work and travel in Punjab without fear.