Senior Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) leader Digvijay Chautala has approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking urgent restoration of his security cover. This move comes after the Haryana government withdrew his protection, an act he terms as "political malice" following his party's successful rally.
Death Threat and Alleged Political Vendetta
In his petition, Digvijay Chautala, the younger brother of former Haryana deputy chief minister Dushyant Chautala, cited a grave threat to his life and liberty. He claimed to have received a death threat via WhatsApp on July 29, allegedly from the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
The threat message included a video showing a statue of slain rapper Sidhu Moose Wala being shot at. Digvijay had inaugurated that statue last year. The accompanying text reportedly stated that Moose Wala was already executed and those supporting him would be next. An FIR (No. 0146) was registered on July 30 at Police Station City Mandi Dabwali under the Arms Act and BNS, but no arrests have been made so far.
Digvijay directly linked the withdrawal of his security on December 10 to the JJP's massive rally in Julana, Jind district, on December 7. He alleged the government was using "arm-twisting" tactics after the rally's record-breaking success. He also highlighted an alleged social media statement by Haryana DGP O P Singh on December 11, where JJP leaders were referred to as "fukrey".
Court Issues Notice, Directs Interim Security
The Punjab and Haryana High Court, after hearing the plea, has issued a notice to the Haryana government, seeking its reply on the petition. The court has also asked the state to provide security to Digvijay Chautala if required while the matter is under consideration.
In his petition, Digvijay, who is the president of the JJP's youth wing and the great-grandson of former deputy PM Devi Lal, emphasized his vulnerable position. He stated that his life is under "grave and imminent threat" due to his political lineage and activities. He has prayed the court to direct the state to provide adequate security for him and his family members.
Background and Political Context
Digvijay Chautala, grandson of former Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala, unsuccessfully contested the 2024 Haryana state assembly elections. The withdrawal of security for a prominent political figure from a key opposition party has raised serious questions about the use of state machinery. The case underscores the tense political climate in Haryana and sets a precedent for how threats against opposition leaders are handled.
The court's intervention marks a significant development, putting the onus on the Haryana government to justify its action. The state's response and the subsequent court proceedings will be closely watched.
