Shiromani Akali Dal Leader Bikram Singh Majithia Freed from Nabha Jail After 224 Days
In a dramatic turn of events, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia walked out of Patiala's Nabha jail on Tuesday after spending 224 days behind bars. His release came just one day after the Supreme Court granted him bail in a high-profile disproportionate assets case that has gripped Punjab's political landscape.
Majithia's Defiant Exit and Allegations Against Government
Dressed in a crisp white kurta-pyjama and a distinctive blue turban, Majithia emerged from the jail premises in an open jeep, twirling his moustache in a gesture that supporters interpreted as defiance and triumph. The blue turban holds particular significance as it represents the panthic colour associated with the Shiromani Akali Dal.
Addressing reporters immediately after his release, Majithia made explosive allegations against the government. "The Government never wanted me to come out alive," he declared. "If journalists are not being spared in this environment, who am I? In reality, the government wanted only my body to come out, not me alive. But I am thankful to God for making truth prevail."
He further elaborated on his jail experience, stating, "During these seven months of incarceration, I meditated extensively—something I couldn't do when I was outside. Even today, the government attempted to impose harsh conditions on my bail. They suggested I shouldn't enter Punjab and shouldn't communicate with anyone. Where would I go then? Walking the path of truth is challenging, but truth ultimately triumphs. The teachings of Guru Sahib provided me immense strength during my time inside."
Court Rejects Stringent Bail Conditions Sought by Vigilance Bureau
Majithia's release followed intense legal proceedings in a Mohali court, where the Punjab Vigilance Bureau made a last-minute attempt to impose restrictive bail conditions. The prosecution had sought to:
- Bar Majithia from residing in Punjab
- Allow him to enter the state only for court appearances
- Restrict his social media activity and public statements
The prosecution justified these requests by citing Majithia's "influential status" and concerns that he might prejudice the ongoing trial or influence witnesses. However, the Mohali court firmly rejected these demands.
The court observed that Majithia is a permanent resident of Punjab and restricting his stay in the state would be unjustified. It also refused to impose a gag order, noting that such conditions would infringe upon constitutional freedoms. Majithia's legal team, led by counsel H S Dhanoa, welcomed the decision, stating that the order protected fundamental rights and rejected what they described as "unreasonable" limits sought by the prosecution.
Background of the Case and Arrest Details
Bikram Singh Majithia was arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on June 25, 2025, at his residence in Amritsar. The case originates from a 2021 drug probe, with the agency filing a massive 40,000-page chargesheet on August 22, 2025. The chargesheet alleges that Majithia facilitated the laundering of proceeds from the drug trade, leading to the disproportionate assets case against him.
Emotional Scenes and Family Support
Supporters had gathered outside Nabha jail since early morning, erupting in celebratory slogans as Majithia stepped out. He was accompanied by SAD spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kler in the open jeep that carried him away from the prison.
His wife, Ganieve Majithia, who is also a Shiromani Akali Dal MLA, reached the jail around 10 am as bail formalities were being completed. She revealed that a fresh white kurta-pyjama had been sent inside for him to wear upon release. "The lion has now come out of jail," she proclaimed proudly to reporters.
Post-Release Plans and Political Implications
After his release from jail, Majithia was scheduled to first pay obeisance at Gurdwara Dukhniwaran Sahib in Patiala. According to party sources, he is then expected to head to either Amritsar or Chandigarh, though his exact itinerary remains fluid.
The release of the prominent SAD leader after 224 days in custody marks a significant development in Punjab politics, with potential implications for the state's political dynamics as Majithia returns to public life amid ongoing legal proceedings.
