The recent killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Punjab’s Mansa has led to significant unrest, culminating in the demolition of the house belonging to Ashwani Kumar, the owner of the medical store where the incident allegedly took place. Kumar was arrested by police on Wednesday, 27 September, in Salasar, Rajasthan, following the shooting that has drawn widespread attention and outrage.

Kumar is accused of fatally shooting Jhota during a confrontation regarding the alleged illegal sale of addictive drugs at his shop. The incident reportedly occurred after Jhota, along with his supporters, confronted Kumar about the sale of certain narcotics to a customer. This confrontation was captured on video, which has since circulated online, showing Jhota questioning Kumar about his practices.

In the video, which lasts five minutes and 49 seconds, Jhota can be heard asserting that Kumar had brandished a pistol. He challenged the accused to open fire, moments before Kumar allegedly shot him. Additional footage shows Kumar emerging from the shop with a weapon, pursuing Jhota, who was attempting to flee. Jhota was later discovered lying in a nearby shop, covered in blood, and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, according to police reports.

Political Reactions and Criticism

The killing has triggered a wave of outrage and has led to sharp criticism of the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government regarding its handling of law and order and its anti-drug initiative, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’. Congress leader Amarinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the murder, attributing it to the government’s failure to maintain public safety and effectively implement its anti-drug policies.

Warring emphasised that Jhota had actively opposed the drug crisis in Punjab but had not received adequate support from the AAP government. He stated that the daylight murder exposed significant shortcomings in the state’s administration and its ability to protect citizens who speak out against drug abuse.

Similarly, Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal, expressed his shock over the incident, asserting that it underscored the deteriorating law-and-order situation in Punjab. He labelled the AAP government’s anti-drug campaign as a mere “gimmick” and accused the administration of failing to address the pressing issue of drug abuse in the state.

Bikram Singh Majithia, another leader from the Akali Dal, questioned the government’s response to the incident, expressing concern that individuals who raise their voices against drug-related issues are not being adequately protected. Punjab BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon also critiqued the AAP government, describing the incident as indicative of a “jungle raj” prevailing in the state.

Government’s Response and Future Implications

In light of the escalating situation, AAP leader Baltej Pannu condemned the murder and assured the public that strict action would be taken against those responsible. He reiterated that no individual is permitted to take the law into their own hands, indicating the government’s commitment to addressing the fallout from this incident.

The killing of Jhota has intensified the political discourse surrounding drug abuse and law enforcement in Punjab, a matter of significant concern as the state approaches the upcoming Assembly elections. The incident has sparked debates on the effectiveness of current policies and the safety of activists advocating against drug-related issues.

As the investigation continues, the implications of this tragic event are likely to resonate throughout the political landscape, prompting calls for accountability and a reassessment of the measures in place to combat drug abuse in Punjab.

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