Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann defended the arrest of senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia in connection with a drug smuggling case and hinted that more top politicians and officials could face similar action in the coming days.
Speaking to reporters at his official residence in Chandigarh, Mann said that no one involved in Punjab’s drug trade—regardless of their political or bureaucratic stature—would be spared. “Strict action will be taken against all of them,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that earlier, opposition leaders used to complain that the “big crocodiles” in drug smuggling were never touched. “Now that we have taken action against them, the same leaders are calling it politically motivated. This exposes their double standards and confirms that many political figures are complicit,” Mann said.
He added that the state’s ‘war against drugs’ initially targeted local smugglers and was now moving up the chain to those directing operations. Mann claimed that 80 to 90 per cent of the arrested smugglers have not been able to secure bail so far. “There will be no mercy and no recommendations will be entertained. I am answerable only to the people of Punjab,” he said.
Without directly naming Majithia, Mann said this was the first time that high-level political figures were facing accountability, and the response from the public had been largely supportive. “People are calling from across Punjab. Panchayats are passing resolutions that they won’t support bail for any drug smuggler,” he said.
The Chief Minister also revealed that investigators had uncovered evidence of crores of rupees being transferred through hawala channels, which is now under probe. He said the current political situation in the state resembles “Aam Aadmi Party versus all other political parties.”
“This time, the Punjab government has taken a firm stand. Those who have caused devastation in people’s homes will not be spared,” Mann said.
