By The remarks come as political parties sharpen their focus on the drug menace ahead of the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections. Shah accused the state government of failing to adequately address the drug trade and growing organised crime, while Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann responded by pointing to a major drug seizure at Gujarat’s Kandla port and challenging the Union Home Minister to take responsibility for his own department’s duties.
Amit Shah Questions Punjab’s Law and Order
In a post on X, Shah said Punjab was facing serious challenges from drug trafficking, gangsterism and organised crime. He referred to the Dirba incident, in which a father reportedly consumed poison under pressure, and the broad-daylight killing of Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa.
Jhota had raised his voice against drugs, according to Shah, who said the killing had raised concerns about the safety of those challenging the drug trade.
The home minister directed his criticism at Mann, arguing that Punjab’s residents wanted concrete action rather than public announcements and political assurances. He called for decisive action against drug networks and an impartial investigation into allegations that criminals may have received political protection.
Shah also reiterated the BJP’s promise to work towards making Punjab drug-free, free from gangsterism and safer for its residents if the party comes to power in the state. He said the party’s priorities would include protecting young people from drugs, taking strict action against criminals and strengthening the rule of law.
Bhagwant Mann Hits Back Over Kandla Drug Seizure
Mann responded sharply to Shah’s comments, shifting attention to drug seizures at Kandla port in Gujarat. In a post in Punjabi on X, the Punjab chief minister referred to the seizure of 3,000 kg of suspected narcotics, described in his post as chitta, and questioned Shah’s criticism of his government.
Mann also referred to the Border Security Force’s jurisdiction along the international border, arguing that the Union government must take responsibility for its own responsibilities before questioning Punjab’s handling of the drug problem.
He accused Shah of relying on prepared political messaging rather than addressing the issues raised by the Gujarat seizure. The exchange turned the debate into a broader political dispute over accountability for drug trafficking and the responsibilities of state and central authorities.
Drug Menace Emerges as an Election Issue
The war of words highlights how drugs and public safety are becoming prominent issues in Punjab’s political debate ahead of the Assembly elections. The BJP has increasingly targeted the Aam Aadmi Party government over drug trafficking, gangster-related violence and the protection of citizens who oppose the trade.
Shah’s remarks focused on the Punjab government’s response to the two incidents and the need for action against criminal networks. Mann, meanwhile, challenged the Centre to demonstrate accountability over drug seizures beyond Punjab.
The competing claims place pressure on both governments to show measurable results. Assessing their records will require independently verifiable information on drug seizures, prosecutions, trafficking networks and action against those accused of enabling the trade.
