Drogenhandel blüht, organisierte Kriminalität wächst in Punjab: Amit Shah

Amit Shah, India's Union Home Minister, accused the Punjab government of failing to address the rising drug trade and organized crime in the state. In a social media post, he cited two recent incidents, the suicide of Gulzar Singh in Dirba and the daylight killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa, as evidence of deteriorating law and order. Shah called for an explanation from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann regarding these events. He emphasized that the people of Punjab expect tangible results rather than public statements. The incidents have intensified political discourse ahead of the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for early next year. Gulzar Singh, from Dirba in Sangrur, died by suicide on September 7 after allegedly being harassed and subjected to casteist remarks following his questioning of Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema over drug supply issues in his area. Meanwhile, Jhota was shot dead by a medical store owner in Mansa on Tuesday. The store owner, Ashwani Kumar, was later arrested for firing at Jhota during a confrontation related to the sale of addictive drugs to an elderly man. Jhota's father has accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government and its MLA of complicity in the activist's death. The Union Home Ministry plans to request the Punjab government's response on both cases. Shah reiterated his commitment to creating a drug-free and secure Punjab should his party come to power. He pledged decisive actions against drug networks and criminal elements while ensuring justice for victims.