BJP Flags 'Terror-Like' Situation in Punjab; Tarun Chugh Slams Govt, Vows to Brief Home Minister

Jalandhar (The Uttam Hindu): After a recent terrorist attack on the residence of former Punjab Cabinet Minister and senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia, BJP’s National General Secretary and J&K in-charge Tarun Chugh visited Kalia’s home and strongly criticized the prevailing law and order situation in Punjab.

Chugh alleged that Punjab is now witnessing a return of terrorism-like conditions. He claimed the state's law enforcement machinery is being crippled by political interference, stating that police officers can no longer take action without the approval of ministers and MLAs. “Punjab Police is capable and efficient, but the government has tied their hands,” he said.

Raising alarm over the recovery of 50 grenades in the state, Chugh accused the state leadership of failing to inform national security agencies about this serious threat. “Such intelligence should immediately be shared with police or central agencies. Leaders withholding such information are putting public safety at risk,” he warned.

Chugh also hit out at the state government’s past decision to publicly downgrade security for many individuals, citing the tragic murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala as one of the consequences. He asserted that both AAP and Congress are responsible for creating fear and instability in Punjab.

Praising the efforts of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Chugh pointed out that it was the central agency that arrested the prime accused in the attack, while Punjab Police held press briefings. “There should be no credit war. Truth and national security must come first,” he said.

Chugh announced that he will be submitting a detailed report to Union Home Minister Amit Shah based on his discussions with Manoranjan Kalia. He urged for an impartial probe into the attack and called for stronger coordination between state and central agencies to prevent the return of violence in Punjab.