A political controversy has erupted in Punjab over the control of drug smuggling, with AAP MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer terming a recent request by SAD MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal to the Centre as "strange." The disagreement centers on the appropriate role of central and state agencies in tackling the border-state's narcotics crisis.
A Contradictory Demand?
Meet Hayer pointed out that Badal's request for central intervention comes at a time when all Punjab MPs across the political spectrum have been advocating for more powers for the state government. He questioned the timing and intent behind the Shiromani Akali Dal leader's appeal, suggesting it contradicts her own party's historical position on federal authority.
The BSF Jurisdiction Dispute
The core of the conflict lies in the jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF). As highlighted by Meet Hayer, the Akali Dal had previously opposed the central government's move to increase BSF's jurisdiction from 15 km to 50 km inside the international border. This enhanced power allows the BSF to conduct searches, seize contraband, and make arrests deeper within Punjab's territory, a move the SAD resisted.
Punjab Congress chief, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, further sharpened the attack. Speaking to the Times of India, Warring demanded clarity from Badal. "She needs to make it clear whether she is speaking on the directions of the BJP and whether she wants the BSF to have jurisdiction in the entire state," Warring stated over the phone. This comment directly links the debate to broader national political tensions.
Political Allegations and State Autonomy
The issue has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate about federalism and state rights. The AAP and Congress leaders are framing Badal's request as inconsistent, given her party's past opposition to expanding central forces' operational reach. They imply that the demand may be politically motivated rather than a genuine policy shift aimed at curbing the drone-based smuggling of drugs and arms from across the border.
The controversy underscores the complex and sensitive nature of security management in border states. While the need for a robust mechanism to stop cross-border smuggling is undisputed, the disagreement revolves around which agency—state police or central paramilitary forces—should lead the charge and how much power they should wield within the state's interior.
This political skirmish leaves the central issue unresolved: finding an effective, collaborative strategy between the Centre and the Punjab government to decisively tackle the drug menace that plagues the region.
