ON
← Back to feed
Political mercury rises in Punjab ahead of Amit Shah’s visit
India🏛️ PoliticsCenter9 hr. ago

Political mercury rises in Punjab ahead of Amit Shah’s visit

Political tensions in Punjab escalated ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's planned visit on October 20, 2026, where he intended to meet families of individuals killed in drug-related incidents. Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon stated that Shah would meet the families of anti-drug activists Parminder Singh Jhotta, Gulzar Singh, and Bikramjit Singh, who were killed in drug-related violence. Shah accused the AAP government of failing to address Punjab's drug crisis, suggesting that the AAP allowed meth traffickers to operate freely. In response, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal criticized the BJP for being ineffective in managing law and order in their own states and accused them of enabling criminal activities. Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal called for a CBI investigation into the murder of Jhotta and a broader inquiry into potential drug trade connections involving politicians and police.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has drawn attention to the escalating drug trade and rising threat of organized crime in Punjab, citing recent incidents involving a father who committed suicide and an anti-drug activist who was killed in broad daylight. Shah stated that the central government will request the Punjab administration to respond to these cases, emphasizing the need for accountability and action against drug-related activities in the state. During a visit to Punjab on October 20, Shah met with the families of several individuals who died in incidents linked to the drug problem. These included Bikramjit Singh, who was allegedly hacked to death after confronting drug peddlers in Gurdaspur district, and Gulzar Singh, a Dalit man who died by suicide in Sangrur after questioning Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema about the availability of drugs. Shah also planned to meet the family of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist who was shot dead in Mansa on October 13 while addressing a Facebook Live session. Jhota, known for his efforts against drug abuse and the illegal sale of addictive substances, had reportedly confronted medical store owner Ashwani Kumar for allegedly selling drugs to an elderly man. Kumar opened fire, killing Jhota. The incident has drawn criticism from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, which faces accusations of allowing drug traffickers to operate freely. Shah criticized the AAP government, stating that it has not fulfilled its promise to eliminate the drug menace within three months of taking office. He emphasized that the people of Punjab expect results, not mere announcements, and called for decisive action against drug networks and impartial investigations into potential political connections with criminals. In response, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused the central government of ignoring the sources of synthetic and pharmaceutical drugs that are being misused in Punjab. He pointed out that these drugs are primarily manufactured in states governed by the BJP and Congress, and the central government has failed to take action against these suppliers. Cheema noted that Punjab has repeatedly requested stronger legal measures to combat the misuse of prescription medications, but the central government has not provided a concrete response. Cheema also mentioned that the Punjab Health Department had written to the central government seeking the inclusion of certain medicines in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Despite these requests, the central government has not taken any significant steps to address the issue. He criticized the central government for relying on outdated laws instead of implementing modern solutions to tackle the drug crisis. Shah’s visit to Punjab coincides with heightened political tensions, as the issue of drug trafficking has become a major point of contention ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in 2027. The BJP has pledged to make Punjab completely drug-free by December 31, 2029, if it forms the government in the state. During his visit, Shah also attended Dussehra celebrations in Ludhiana, where an effigy representing a synthetic drug was burned alongside the effigy of Ravana, symbolizing the party’s campaign against narcotics. Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder of Jhota and a comprehensive investigation into the politician-police drug trade nexus in Punjab. She argued that the police have not adequately addressed the statements made by Jhota’s father, Bhim Singh, and demanded a thorough inquiry into all aspects of the case. The situation in Punjab highlights the growing concern over drug trafficking and related violence, with political parties using the issue to gain public support ahead of the elections. As the debate continues, the central and state governments face mounting pressure to implement effective measures to combat the drug menace and ensure the safety of Punjab’s residents.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 5 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

6 reports

The Print logoThe PrintIndependentConservativeFactual 90Objective 854 days ago
Drug trade flourishing, organised crime growing in Punjab: Amit Shah

Amit Shah, a prominent Indian politician, has stated that the drug trade is thriving and organized crime is increasing in the state of Punjab. This assertion highlights concerns over rising criminal activities in the region, which could have significant implications for law enforcement and public safety. Such claims often prompt discussions around the effectiveness of current policies and the need for stronger measures against illicit activities. The situation in Punjab reflects broader national issues related to drug trafficking and organized crime.

Bias read (Conservative): The statement by Amit Shah, who is a high-profile political figure associated with the ruling party, frames the issue in a manner that emphasizes the threat posed by drug trade and organized crime, potentially aligning with the government's narrative on security and law and order. The framing does 1

Why factuality (90): This article provides more detailed information about the incidents cited by Amit Shah, including the names of individuals involved and the sequence of events. The facts align closely with the cross-source consensus and are supported by the PTI source. It offers a clearer picture of the situation th

Why objectivity (85): The article remains largely objective but includes some framing that emphasizes the severity of the drug problem in Punjab through quotes from Amit Shah. While this does not show clear bias, it leans slightly towards highlighting the concerns of the central government rather than providing a fully b

Deccan Herald logoDeccan HeraldIndependentConservativeFactual: no official source document/info detectedObjective 804 days ago
Amit Shah says drug trade flourishing in Punjab; CM Bhagwant Mann replies

Amit Shah, a senior Indian politician and leader of the BJP, has raised concerns about the growing drug trade in Punjab, a state currently preparing for elections. This statement comes amid heightened political focus on the issue by various parties, including the BJP, which is likely using the topic as part of its election strategy. The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, responded to these claims, though the specifics of his reply are not detailed in the provided excerpt. The situation highlights the role of drug-related issues in shaping political discourse ahead of upcoming polls.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the discussion around Amit Shah's comments, who is a prominent figure in the BJP, suggesting a potential emphasis on the drug issue as a political tool during elections. While Bhagwant Mann's response is mentioned, the article does not provide balanced coverage of both sides, and,

Why factuality: no official source document/info detected

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone, presenting the statements made by Amit Shah and Bhagwant Mann without overt bias. However, it does not provide counterpoints or perspectives from the Punjab government or other stakeholders, which slightly reduces its balance.

The Hindu logoThe HinduIndependentProgressive9 hr. ago
Centre must stop treating Punjab's drug crisis as ‘political opportunity’: AAP Minister on Shah’s visit

Amit Shah, India's Home Minister, criticized the AAP government in Punjab for its handling of the state's drug crisis during a visit to meet families affected by drug-related tragedies. In response, Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused the central government of failing to address the root causes of the problem, particularly the production and distribution of synthetic and pharmaceutical drugs originating from states governed by the BJP and Congress. He emphasized that Punjab is actively combating drug trafficking but argued that the Centre is neglecting its responsibility to regulate drug manufacturing outside Punjab. Cheema highlighted that medicines like Pregabalin and Tramadol, which require prescriptions, are being misused in Punjab, and the state has repeatedly requested stronger legal measures from the Centre, which have not been implemented.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a failure of the central government (led by the BJP) to act on drug manufacturing in states under its control, while praising the AAP government in Punjab for its efforts. It uses strong language to criticize the Centre for ignoring the problem and portrays the AAP as

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentCenter15 hr. ago
Amit Shah meets family of anti-drug activist hacked to death in Punjab

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with the families of two individuals killed in incidents related to Punjab's drug problem. Bikramjit Singh was allegedly hacked to death after confronting drug dealers in Pannawan village, while Gulzar Singh, a Dalit man, died by suicide after allegedly being harassed for questioning Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema about drug availability. Shah's visits aim to show support for anti-drug activists and align with the BJP's pledge to eliminate drug trafficking in Punjab by 2029. The meetings come as drug-related issues become a significant political concern ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. Later, Shah attended Dussehra celebrations where an effigy symbolizing a synthetic drug was burned.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Amit Shah's meetings with families of anti-drug activists and does not exhibit clear bias toward any political side. It includes quotes from both the Home Minister and BJP officials but remains neutral in tone and framing.

The Hindu logoThe HinduIndependentCenter21 hr. ago
Political mercury rises in Punjab ahead of Amit Shah’s visit

Political tensions in Punjab escalated ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's planned visit on October 20, 2026, where he intended to meet families of individuals killed in drug-related incidents. Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon stated that Shah would meet the families of anti-drug activists Parminder Singh Jhotta, Gulzar Singh, and Bikramjit Singh, who were killed in drug-related violence. Shah accused the AAP government of failing to address Punjab's drug crisis, suggesting that the AAP allowed meth traffickers to operate freely. In response, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal criticized the BJP for being ineffective in managing law and order in their own states and accused them of enabling criminal activities. Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal called for a CBI investigation into the murder of Jhotta and a broader inquiry into potential drug trade connections involving politicians and police.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the political conflict between the BJP and AAP in Punjab regarding drug trafficking and targeted killings. It includes direct quotes from leaders of both parties, allowing readers to form their own conclusions without overtly favoring one side. There is no clear sl

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentCenter4 days ago
BJP Rajasthan chief Madan Rathore says he will ‘stand with Pakistan’ in war with US, issues clarification later

The Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have criticized the BJP, challenging its stance on nationalism. This comes amid controversy involving BJP Rajasthan chief Madan Rathore, who initially made remarks suggesting support for Pakistan in a potential conflict with the US but later issued a clarification.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on political criticism between parties without taking a clear ideological stance. It mentions controversy around a BJP leader's comments but does not frame the issue with biased language or one-sided sourcing.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories