Punjab BJP condemns police action against activist who raised drug issue

Chandigarh, Sep 4 (AHN) Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Friday condemned the alleged police torture of GurSikh youth Mohanjeet Singh, who had raised the issue of drugs in Punjab directly before the Chief Minister.

Dhillon also spoke to the victim over a video call, enquired about his well-being and encouraged him for raising his voice to protect the youth from drugs. He said the BJP “stands firmly with Mohanjeet Singh in this difficult hour and that every possible effort would be made to ensure justice for him”.

He said he had also spoken over the phone with the Senior Superintendent of Police of Sangrur and the Director General of Police regarding the issue and demanded an impartial investigation into the alleged torture of Mohanjeet Singh and justice for the victim.

Dhillon said that the party “stands firmly with the youth and that Daman Thind Bajwa, District President, Sangrur, along with his team, is working to assist the victim”. He assured that the BJP would provide every possible assistance to the victim.

Dhillon said that Mohanjeet Singh had not indulged in any illegal activity; rather, he had raised the serious issue of drug abuse and the need to protect the youth from drugs directly before the Chief Minister. He said in a democracy every citizen has the right to question the government and put forward his views.

However, taking him into custody for raising the issue of drugs, allegedly beating and torturing him, and disrespecting his Kakars “is extremely unfortunate and condemnable”. He said the incident also raised serious questions over the claims made by the Punjab government regarding its ‘War Against Drugs’ campaign. The government has completely failed to control the drug menace.

He said instead of trying to silence them through police force, the government should listen to and support young people who are raising their voices against drugs. Dhillon said the Aam Aadmi Party government, which emerged from protests and people’s struggles, has now started fearing questions from the very people it claims to represent.

He alleged that the government is attempting to suppress the voice of the people and is using force against those who ask questions.