Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Tuesday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for conducting a raid at the residence of senior party leader Bikram Singh Majithia, terming it a clear case of political vendetta.
Raid at Majithia's Residence
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a raid at Majithia's house in Amritsar on Monday in connection with a money laundering case. The raid lasted for several hours, with ED officials seizing documents and electronic devices. Majithia, a former minister, has been accused of involvement in the illegal sand mining and drug trade.
Badal's Reaction
Addressing a press conference, Badal accused the AAP government of misusing central agencies to settle political scores. He said, "The raid on Majithia's house is a prime example of the AAP's vendetta politics. They are targeting opposition leaders to divert attention from their failures." Badal further alleged that the AAP government has failed to deliver on its promises and is now using the ED to harass political opponents.
Badal also questioned the timing of the raid, pointing out that it came just days after Majithia had criticized the AAP government's handling of the drug menace in Punjab. He said, "This is an attempt to silence dissent and crush opposition voices."
AAP's Response
The AAP government, however, denied any political motive behind the raid. A spokesperson for the party said, "The ED is an independent agency, and its actions are based on evidence. The raid was conducted as part of a legitimate investigation into money laundering charges against Majithia." The spokesperson also accused the SAD of trying to shield its leaders from legal scrutiny.
Political Implications
The raid has sparked a political controversy in Punjab, with the SAD calling for a statewide protest. The party has announced a series of demonstrations against what it calls the "dictatorial attitude" of the AAP government. Political analysts believe that the incident could further polarize the political landscape in the state ahead of the upcoming local body elections.
The SAD has also sought a meeting with Governor Banwarilal Purohit to demand a probe into the alleged misuse of central agencies. Badal said, "We will not allow the AAP to destroy the democratic fabric of Punjab. We will fight this vendetta politics tooth and nail."
Meanwhile, Majithia has denied all allegations and said that he is ready to face any legal scrutiny. He said, "I have nothing to hide. The raid is a cheap tactic to defame me and my party."
