Bhagwant Mann attacks BJP over Satyendar Jain’s arrest, calling the action ‘anti-democratic’ and alleging misuse of central agencies against opposition leaders.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised the BJP over the arrest of former Delhi minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab co-in-charge Satyendar Jain. Mann alleged that central investigative agencies were being used to target opposition leaders, particularly in places where elections are approaching.
Calling the BJP’s approach “anti-democratic”, Bhagwant Mann said political opponents were being targeted through arrests and investigations instead of being challenged on political issues. He also expressed hope that the judiciary would deliver justice in the matter.
Bhagwant Mann Accuses BJP of Targeting Opposition Leaders
According to Bhagwant Mann, the BJP has been unable to establish a strong political base in Punjab and is therefore relying on what he described as “cheap tactics”. He also questioned the timing of the action against Satyendar Jain.
Mann claimed that the case being referred to in connection with Jain relates to a period when the AAP leader was already in jail. He said the court would ultimately decide the matter and expressed confidence that justice would be served.
The Punjab CM further alleged that a pattern had emerged in which prominent opposition leaders were arrested for a few months ahead of elections. He cited previous actions involving AAP leaders during the Delhi elections as examples.
Delhi Cases Also Mentioned
During his criticism of the BJP, Bhagwant Mann referred to the arrests of AAP leaders Sanjay Singh and Manish Sisodia. He also mentioned former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s legal proceedings.
Mann argued that political parties should be able to compete electorally without investigative agencies becoming a tool for political pressure. His remarks come amid an ongoing political confrontation between the AAP and BJP.
Mann Questions ED Allegations
Reacting to notices and letters issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Mann said agencies could send documents and notices, but he questioned the substance of the allegations.
He accused opposition parties of targeting the Punjab government because, according to him, they had failed to find a strong political issue against his administration.
Mann also rejected criticism of his government’s credibility. He said he did not require an “honesty certificate” from anyone and alleged that people who had previously “looted Punjab” were now questioning his government’s record.
‘Punjab Does Not Need a Certificate of Patriotism’
The Punjab CM also responded to the National Human Rights Commission’s observation concerning the alleged non-hoisting of the national flag at some schools in border districts on Independence Day.
Bhagwant Mann said Punjab did not need anyone to certify its patriotism. He highlighted the state’s contribution to India’s freedom movement and the armed forces.
He argued that national occasions such as Independence Day and Republic Day should always acknowledge Punjab’s historical contribution to the country.
Bhagwant Mann Says Punjab Situation Under Control
Heavy rainfall in parts of Punjab also came up during Mann’s remarks. Addressing concerns about possible flood-like conditions, Bhagwant Mann said there was no reason for panic and maintained that the situation in the state remained under control.
He acknowledged that Chandigarh had experienced heavy rainfall but said the situation in Punjab was not currently at a level that should be described as a flood-like crisis.
The Chief Minister also said the state’s paddy crop was progressing well. His comments came as authorities continued to monitor weather conditions and rainfall across the region.
Political Tensions Continue
The comments by Bhagwant Mann are likely to add another layer to the ongoing political contest between the AAP and BJP. While Mann has questioned the use of central agencies against opposition leaders, the BJP has maintained its own position on investigations involving AAP leaders.
For now, attention remains on the legal proceedings involving Satyendar Jain, while the Punjab government is also monitoring the impact of heavy rainfall across the state.
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