BJP’s Tarun Chugh demands judicial probe into Majitha hooch tragedy, slams AAP for governance collapse

Chandigarh, May 13: BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has called for a judicial inquiry into the hooch tragedy in Majitha that has reportedly claimed 15 lives, blaming the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for what he described as an “administrative collapse” and the unchecked rise of the liquor mafia. Expressing deep anguish over the incident, Chugh said the tragedy highlights the deteriorating law and order situation in the state under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership. “This is yet another blot on Punjab’s image under AAP’s misrule,” he said, accusing the state government of allowing illegal liquor networks to flourish.

He drew parallels between the situation in Punjab and the controversies surrounding the Delhi liquor policy, alleging that AAP has replicated its “corrupt model” in the state.

“The same AAP which brazenly facilitated liquor cartels in Delhi is now turning Punjab into a worse victim of that corrupt framework,” Chugh charged.

Calling for a high-level judicial investigation, Chugh said only an independent probe could uncover the extent of official negligence and determine who should be held accountable for the deaths. “A thorough judicial probe is essential to expose the nexus and restore public confidence,” he added. The Majitha tragedy has triggered political uproar in the state, with opposition parties demanding answers and action amid growing public concern over illegal alcohol sales. At least 14 people died in scattered villages of Amritsar district after consuming spurious liquor, leading to the arrest of seven accused. Police said half-a-dozen others are hospitalised.