BJP accuses Punjab AAP government of media censorship, cover-ups
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, alleging that the Bhagwant Mann government has imposed 'undeclared censorship' on the media and is engaged in covering up scandals. The allegations were made by BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh at a press conference in New Delhi.
Mr. Chugh claimed that people in Punjab are living in an atmosphere of fear, with gangsters and mafia operating under the protection of the AAP government. He said the Chief Minister's office controls what should be published in print media and aired on news channels, describing this as a form of censorship.
The BJP leader also criticised the state government's anti-drug campaign, 'Yudh Nashian Virudh', calling it a 'sham' and a 'drama' meant to grab headlines. He went further to suggest that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should undergo a 'dope test' before urging citizens to quit substance abuse. These remarks were made without providing any evidence.
On the issue of paper leaks, Mr. Chugh alleged that the AAP government is protecting those involved. He also claimed that illegal mining is rampant across Punjab, including in the Ravi and Chakki rivers, and in the Kandi region. He alleged that a 'Mann Tax' of ₹3,500 is collected from every truck carrying illegally mined material.
Mr. Chugh further alleged that Punjab's law and order situation has deteriorated, describing it as being on a 'ventilator'. He claimed that jails have become 'mafia's undeclared offices' where interviews are given from behind prison walls. He also alleged that extortion is widespread, affecting traders, industrialists, doctors, lawyers, and farmers across the state.
'Those meant to be protectors have turned into predators, devouring Punjab's economy, peace and assets. Exam papers are being leaked. Law and order has crumbled. Extortion and torture centres are rampant,' Mr. Chugh said.
The BJP leader accused the AAP dispensation of misusing government machinery and engaging in 'headline management' instead of taking action. He claimed that anyone who raises a voice is beaten or killed, and that all attempts are being made to cover up scandals.
There was no immediate response from the AAP government to these allegations. The BJP's remarks come amid ongoing political rivalry between the two parties in Punjab, where AAP has been in power since 2022. As with all political statements, these allegations are yet to be independently verified.
