Pargat Singh Condemns BJP for ED Action Against Amarinder Singh
Former education minister and Jalandhar Cantonment MLA Pargat Singh launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday, following the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) summoning former Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh. The Congress leader alleged that central agencies are being weaponized for political vendettas against opposition figures.
Allegations of Political Misuse of Central Agencies
Pargat Singh claimed that the ED's move came shortly after Amarinder Singh publicly questioned his standing within the BJP and remarked that the party fails to comprehend Punjab's unique political landscape. "This is a clear pattern of the BJP misusing central agencies like the ED to target and intimidate political opponents across the nation," he asserted.
The senior Congress leader elaborated that during Amarinder Singh's tenure as chief minister, central agencies were allegedly deployed to pressure him on matters critical to Punjab, particularly concerning farmers' issues. "Under such relentless pressure, Amarinder Singh felt compelled to align with the BJP," Pargat stated, highlighting what he described as coercive tactics.
Warning to Punjabi Political Leaders
Pargat Singh issued a stark warning to other Punjabi leaders, suggesting that Amarinder Singh's experience could be a precursor for anyone considering joining parties like the BJP or the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). "This episode should serve as a serious caution. Leaders must think deeply and evaluate the consequences before taking such a step," he advised.
Expressing concern for Amarinder Singh's well-being, Pargat wished him good health and recommended that he focus on his retirement, perhaps by authoring books and enjoying time with family and friends.
Criticism Extends to AAP Government in Punjab
In a broader critique, Pargat Singh also targeted the AAP-led government in Punjab, accusing it of emulating the BJP's model of misusing governmental machinery. He alleged that cases have been filed against some AAP MLAs, yet many such matters remain unresolved, creating a climate of political manipulation.
"Dissenting voices, including those from within party ranks, are being systematically marginalized," he added, pointing to what he sees as a troubling trend in Punjab's political environment under AAP rule.
Pargat's comments underscore ongoing tensions in Punjab's political sphere, where allegations of agency misuse and partisan tactics continue to fuel debates among key stakeholders.
