Total collapse of law and order in Punjab: Tarun Chugh

Chandigarh, Oct 07: BJP National General Secretary, Tarun Chugh, strongly condemned the total collapse of law and order in Punjab during the Panchayat elections.

Chugh said, the series of incidents, ranging from intimidation by gangsters during the Panchayat elections to tragic deaths caused by harassment, reflected utter failure of the administration to protect its citizens and uphold democratic values.

The failure of the AAP government to ensure free and fair Panchayat elections is a direct attack on democracy. Referring to the incident in Faridkot’s Behbal Khurd village, where nominations were prevented due to gangster interference, Chugh emphasized how anti social elements are taking control while the government remains idle. It is shameful that instead of maintaining law and order, the AAP leadership is using goons to intimidate opposition candidates and derail the democratic process. The people of Punjab deserve better, and the state must act immediately to restore law and order.

Chugh criticized CM Bhagwant Mann for the incident where an unemployed, ETT-qualified candidate attempted suicide during a peaceful protest in Amritsar. Thousands of youth who passed the eligibility test have been waiting far too long for job opportunities, despite repeated promises from the AAP government. This shocking incident highlights the distress faced by Punjab’s educated youth and exposes the government’s failure to provide employment or even hope to those in need, Chugh said.

Citing another tragic incident in Abohar, where a 55-year-old resident was driven to self immolation due to harassment by local AAP leaders and government officials, Chugh noted that this marks a dark chapter in the state’s history. This death was caused by abuse of power by AAP leaders and the failure of the administration to act on persons repeated pleas for justice. His death is not just a personal tragedy but a glaring example of a broken administrative system where the most vulnerable are left without protection.

The repeated incidents of harassment, suicides, and suppression of democratic voices point to the growing insecurity and dominance of the AAP. The AAP government's interference in the democratic process and stripping of autonomy from Panchayats demonstrates CM's hunger for power, leaving the state in chaos.

Chugh called for immediate action to restore law and order. He urged the State Election Commission (SEC) to take stern action against AAP leaders and officials who are undermining democracy.

“A thorough investigation must be conducted into the intimidation of Panchayat candidates in Faridkot. The government must deliver justice to grieving families, fulfill its promises to the unemployed youth, and stop interfering with democratic processes,” he said.

Chugh further said that Punjab deserves leadership that cares for its people, respects democracy, and ensures justice for all. “The AAP government under CM Bhagwant Mann has failed in all these aspects, and we strongly condemn their inability to provide governance that is fair, transparent, and for the people,” Chugh held.