Expressing serious apprehension over the prevailing security climate in Punjab, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Iqbal Singh Lalpura stated that the Central government is closely monitoring the situation. Lalpura, a member of the BJP's national parliamentary board and former chairman of the National Commission for Minorities, made these remarks during a press conference in Chandigarh on Thursday.
Centre Watching, Will Act as Per Procedure: Lalpura
When questioned about whether the Centre should remain a mute spectator if the law and order scenario in Punjab is deemed critical, Lalpura outlined the constitutional framework. He clarified that the Centre's role is to supplement and assist the state government in maintaining peace. "Whenever they (Punjab government) demanded force, we (Centre) provided that," he stated. Emphasizing a measured approach, he added that the Union government follows its own established procedures, is keeping a vigilant watch, and will take a decision when the appropriate time arrives.
Earlier in the conference, Lalpura painted a grim picture of the state's security, asserting that the situation has deteriorated to a point where "No one feels safe in Punjab today" and the life and property of citizens are under threat.
Targeting AAP's "Silence" on Religious Sentiments
Lalpura launched a sharp critique against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), questioning its leadership's silence on two specific incidents. The first pertains to the alleged use of derogatory language against the Sikh Gurus (Guru Sahibans) by former Delhi minister Atishi within the Delhi Legislative Assembly. Lalpura highlighted that the Assembly Speaker himself confirmed the use of objectionable words, which he termed a direct assault on Sikh sentiments.
"The silence of AAP leaders, especially those who associate with Sikhism, shows that they are standing in direct opposition to the core Sikh principles," Lalpura alleged. He demanded to know why top AAP figures like Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and the party's Sikh leadership have not spoken up or taken action against the accused.
Call for CBI Probe and Chief Minister's Resignation
The second issue raised involved an unverified viral video concerning Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Lalpura argued that this video has further intensified public concern. He contended that an investigation by the Punjab government or state police would lack impartiality since the allegations involve the CM himself.
Therefore, he called for an immediate inquiry by a neutral agency like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or the judiciary. Taking a firm political stance, Lalpura declared that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has "lost his moral authority" and should resign immediately. He further urged the AAP to remove Mann from office if he fails to step down voluntarily.
Through these statements, the BJP leader has mounted a significant political offensive against the AAP government in Punjab, framing its governance as a failure on both the law and order front and in protecting religious sensitivities.
