Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Launching a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central Government, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday alleged that BJP-ruled states are witnessing a dangerous rise in crime, gangsterism and breakdown of law and order.
Addressing a press conference, the senior AAP leader cited National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and claimed the figures expose the “true face” of BJP governance, where fear, hatred and violence are allegedly being used as political tools.
Cheema said Delhi tops the country’s crime chart with a crime rate of 1602 per one lakh population. He further claimed that Gujarat has a crime rate of 806, Haryana 739.2, Manipur 627.8, Madhya Pradesh 570.3, Maharashtra 470.4, Odisha 431.2, Rajasthan 390.4 and Chandigarh 338.9.
“In contrast, Punjab’s crime rate is much lower at 227.1, proving that the Bhagwant Mann-led government has effectively controlled crime and gangster networks,” Cheema asserted.
Referring to the recent daylight murder of an 18-year-old boy in Chandigarh, Cheema said the incident reflected the “complete failure” of the BJP-controlled administration. He remarked that Chandigarh, once known as the “City Beautiful,” is now increasingly becoming known for crime due to the collapse of the law and order system.
Since Chandigarh directly falls under the Union Home Ministry, Cheema said the BJP cannot escape responsibility for the deteriorating situation in the Union Territory.
The Cabinet Minister also targeted the BJP over gangster networks operating across the country. Referring to jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, Cheema alleged that despite being wanted by multiple state police forces, restrictions are imposed on his custody transfer while criminal networks continue to operate from Gujarat jails.
Praising the Punjab Government’s efforts, Cheema said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken “historic steps” to curb organised crime by forming a dedicated Anti-Gangster Task Force and ensuring major gangsters are sent behind bars.
Cheema further alleged that Punjab had suffered under previous Akali Dal-BJP and Congress governments, where incidents of target killings, gangster glorification and political violence had become common.
The AAP leader also accused the BJP of attempting to intimidate Punjabi voices and influential personalities. Referring to singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, Cheema claimed that after Diljit refused to enter politics, attempts were allegedly made to create fear around him by targeting people associated with him.
Targeting Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Cheema said BJP leaders often interfere in Punjab’s affairs but have failed to control crime in their own states.
Concluding the press conference, Cheema alleged that the BJP is using fear, agencies and violence not only against opposition-ruled states but also against anyone who refuses to bow before the party.
