In a dramatic escalation of political rhetoric, the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Ludhiana unit has formally urged the central government to impose President's Rule in Punjab. The party cites a complete breakdown of law and order, marked by a spate of violent crimes that have instilled a 'reign of fear' among the public.
A State in the Grip of Fear: BJP's Stern Allegations
On Wednesday, BJP Ludhiana District President Rajnesh Dhiman issued a sharply critical press statement, accusing the state government of a catastrophic failure in protecting its citizens. Dhiman asserted that the security situation has deteriorated to a point where criminals, who once operated covertly, now execute brazen attacks in broad daylight without fear of consequences.
The BJP leader highlighted a disturbing trend of violence, noting that four murders have been reported within just four days. He referenced a recent incident of indiscriminate firing at a cloth merchant's shop in Ludhiana as a stark example of how the 'common man' is no longer safe. "Criminals in Punjab have become unbridled and are no longer afraid of the police," Dhiman stated. "Earlier, criminals used to sneak in, but now they are operating openly. Sportspersons, politicians, and businessmen are being killed in broad daylight."
Extortion and Economic Anxiety
Beyond the violent crimes, Dhiman emphasized that extortion calls have become a 'regular affair' across the state. This pervasive threat, he claimed, is creating an atmosphere of deep anxiety that is crippling local businesses and disrupting daily life. The BJP's narrative frames the current Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led state administration as utterly incapable of controlling the rising tide of anarchy.
According to the party's assessment, the situation has deteriorated so severely that the intervention of the central government is now the only viable recourse to ensure public safety. "Extraordinary and decisive action is now necessary to restore peace and public confidence," Dhiman argued in his statement.
The Call for Central Intervention
The formal demand for President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution represents the most severe constitutional remedy available. It signifies a belief that the state's elected government can no longer function in accordance with the Constitution, particularly in maintaining public order.
"To save the state from slipping further into lawlessness, President's Rule has become the need of the hour," Dhiman concluded. This demand follows a series of high-profile murders and extortion cases that have dominated headlines in Punjab over the past week, putting immense pressure on the state government. The BJP's move is seen as a major political offensive, capitalizing on public concern over security to corner the ruling dispensation.
