Chandigarh, May 14
Launching a blistering attack on the BJP-led Central Government, senior AAP leader and Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that states ruled by the BJP for long periods have witnessed a dangerous rise in crime, gangsterism and breakdown of law and order. Citing National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, the minister emphasised that the figures expose the “true face” of BJP governance, where hatred, fear and violence are being used as political tools to capture and retain power.
Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Cheema, while referring to the recent daylight murder of an 18 year old boy in Chandigarh, Cheema remarked, “This incident reflects the complete failure of the BJP controlled administration. Chandigarh was once known as the City Beautiful, but today it is becoming known for crime because the BJP has destroyed the law and order system there. Since Chandigarh directly falls under the Union Home Ministry, the BJP cannot escape responsibility for the deteriorating situation.”
Raising the issue of gangster networks, he asserted, “BJP governments are encouraging gangsterism and anti national elements across the country. Notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi is lodged in a Gujarat jail, a state ruled by the BJP for decades, and despite being wanted by multiple state police forces for investigation, restrictions are imposed on his custody transfer. Gangsters are operating networks, issuing threats and running extortion rackets from Gujarat jails while the BJP government looks the other way.”
The Cabinet Minister said, “The BJP is trying to intimidate Punjabi voices and influential personalities to force them into joining the party. After Diljit Dosanjh refused to enter politics, attempts were made to create fear around him by targeting people associated with him. BJP wants to silence and control every strong Punjabi voice through threats and fear.”
Targeting Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Harpal Singh Cheema remarked, “BJP leaders are always eager to interfere in Punjab’s affairs but have completely failed to control crime in their own states.”
Concluding the press conference, Cheema stated, “BJP is using fear, agencies and violence not only against opposition ruled states but against anyone who refuses to bow before them. The anti Punjab and anti democracy face of BJP is now fully exposed before the country.”
