PHAGWARA: Bholath MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Wednesday levelled serious allegations against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, accusing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of displaying “clear double standards” in tackling the growing gangster problem in Punjab. He claimed that while organised crime continues to rise across the state, the government is preoccupied with political vendetta and VVIP protection instead of strengthening law and order.
In a sharply worded statement, Khaira said the recent suspension of IPS officer Maninder Singh—officially attributed to lapses in controlling the gangster situation—was “a political smokescreen.” He alleged that the officer’s suspension was linked not to operational failures but to his purported reluctance to arrest Kanchanpreet Kaur, daughter of a Shiromani Akali Dal candidate from Tarn Taran. Khaira argued that this, in his view, exposed how the government was “weaponising the police for political convenience.”
Khaira also questioned the absence of immediate action against the SSP of SBS Nagar following a broad daylight gangster shooting in Banga, calling it a serious breach of public safety. He said the contrasting responses to incidents in different districts suggested selective action by the state government. “No steps have been taken despite such a dangerous incident, which clearly indicates that the AAP government targets officers only when it aligns with its political narrative, ” he stated.
The MLA expressed concern over what he described as a steep deterioration in law and order, claiming that incidents of gang wars, extortion, and targeted killings have become disturbingly frequent in recent months. He criticised what he termed as the “expanding VVIP culture” within AAP, alleging that ministers and leaders were enjoying “heavy police escorts and extraordinary security arrangements” even as the public faced rising insecurity.
Khaira urged Chief Minister Mann to adopt a more impartial and professional approach to policing, stating that Punjab needs a law enforcement system free from political interference. He called for uniform accountability across districts and firm, unbiased action to dismantle criminal networks operating in the state.
“Punjab requires a fair and non-partisan policing mechanism, ” Khaira said, asserting that the state cannot afford a force “used for intimidation or political vendetta.” He appealed to the government to prioritise public safety and restore confidence among citizens by addressing the gangster issue with seriousness and transparency.