The political temperature in Punjab has soared after an FIR was lodged against Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa following his controversial remarks on bomb threats in the state. The move has drawn fierce criticism from Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, who accused the AAP-led state government of acting out of political revenge and misusing administrative powers to target opposition leaders.
According to Warring, the FIR appeared to be part of a premeditated strategy by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to silence dissent. He argued that the speed with which the case was registered—just half an hour after Partap Singh Bajwa’s television interview—raised serious questions about the intent behind the action. Warring described the move as a “100% case of revenge,” criticizing the Punjab Police for acting hastily under political pressure.
Allegations of Intelligence Failure and Media Leak
Warring also pointed out that the information shared by Partap Singh Bajwa had already appeared in several Punjabi newspapers, questioning why no action was taken earlier if it was considered sensitive. He criticized the state’s intelligence apparatus, highlighting its failure in preventing the recent grenade attack on BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia despite reportedly having prior warning.
The Congress leader further cautioned senior police officers, urging them not to act as political puppets and to uphold their moral responsibility. Warring warned that political winds could shift, implying accountability would eventually catch up with those misusing their authority.
Partap Singh Bajwa, under fire for claiming that 50 bombs had entered Punjab—with 18 already detonated and 32 more yet to go off—defended his statement, clarifying it was based on a tip-off from a confidential source. He said the source had urged him to remain vigilant due to his prominent political position and family history with terrorism.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Vows Strict Action, Opposition Cries Foul
In response, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that action would be taken if Partap Singh Bajwa’s statements were found to be aimed at spreading fear or panic among the public. Meanwhile, support poured in for Partap Singh Bajwa from within the Congress ranks, with MP Ravneet Bittu publicly backing his colleague.
The controversy reflects the deepening political divide in Punjab, with the opposition accusing the government of stifling free speech under the guise of law and order.
