CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government’s abrupt decision to withdraw security cover of noted Punjabi singer, actor and film producer Gippy Grewal has triggered a major political controversy, with opposition parties accusing the AAP government of endangering his life amid rising gangster threats in the state.
The move has drawn sharp reactions particularly as it reportedly came soon after Grewal met Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). According to sources, Grewal’s security was withdrawn while he was returning from Bathinda to Mohali, forcing him to travel without protection as security personnel were asked to immediately disengage.
In a related development, the security cover of another Punjabi singer, Jordan Sandhu, has also reportedly been withdrawn at a time when several singers and businessmen are facing extortion threats from gangsters. Jordan Sandhu had reportedly met SAD leader Bikram Majithia during a marriage function.Sandhu has also got a threat call from gangsters.
The issue has revived concerns over the safety of public figures in Punjab, especially in the backdrop of the killing of popular singer Sidhu Moosewala, who was shot dead by gangsters in 2022 shortly after his security cover was reduced by the state government.
Security of Baba Ghala Singh also withdrawn
Sukhbir Badal claimed that security of Baba Ghala Singh head of Gurdwara Nanaksar has also been withdrawn becaue be had a meeting with Baba Ghala Singh to seek his blessings. Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Garagajj has also condemned the withdrawl of secruity of Baba Ghala Singh. He said Baba Ghala Singh had played significant role in promotion of Sikhism.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who himself has a background in entertainment as a comedian and singer, is facing criticism from opposition parties over the latest move. Leaders of both the Akali Dal and Congress have questioned the timing and rationale behind the withdrawal of security.
Sukhbir Badal said the AAP government led by Bhagwant Mann had failed to learn any lessons from Moosewala’s assassination, alleging that gangsters were operating freely and targeting singers, businessmen and other prominent citizens for extortion. He warned that removing Grewal’s security could make him vulnerable.
Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring also condemned the decision, describing the law and order situation in the state as “very bad.” He questioned why security had been initially provided to Grewal and what had changed to justify its withdrawal. He held Bhagwant Mann responsible for the action against Gippy Grewal.
“If there was a threat perception earlier, who reviewed it and how has that threat vanished now?” Warring asked, adding that the Moosewala murder had exposed the consequences of withdrawing security cover without proper assessment.
The Punjab government has not yet issued a public explanation regarding the decision, even as the controversy continues to escalate, with opposition parties demanding accountability and a review of security arrangements for vulnerable individuals.