Punjab CM Mann Slams Centre Over VIP Jail Treatment for Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has launched a sharp critique against the central government, accusing it of applying double standards in dealing with gangsters, particularly highlighting the VIP treatment allegedly provided to dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi in Sabarmati jail, Gujarat. This accusation comes just days after Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized gang activities in Punjab during a rally in Moga.
Mann Questions Safety Concerns and Investigation Restrictions
Mann asserted that the government appears more concerned about the safety of Bishnoi than addressing gang violence in Punjab. He pointed out that the Union Home Ministry has issued an order restricting state investigating agencies from questioning Bishnoi anywhere except within the Gujarat jail. Union Home Minister Amit Shah himself spoke about the gangsters during his visit to Punjab, but Lawrence Bishnoi is being given VIP facility in Sabarmati jail in Gujarat, Mann told reporters, emphasizing that such double standards will not work.
Background on Lawrence Bishnoi and Sidhu Moosewala Case
Lawrence Bishnoi is a key accused in the 2022 murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Mann also mentioned that the police are seeking to bring gangster Anmol Bishnoi for questioning in this high-profile case. Regarding efforts to extradite gangsters from abroad, Mann stated that his government is in coordination with the home and external affairs ministries, with Red Corner Notices issued against criminals based in foreign countries. He cited a recent instance where a gangster was detained at the Ukraine border, with ongoing efforts to bring him to India.
Political Clash Over Anti-Conversion Law and Religious Unity
Responding to Shah's promise of introducing an anti-conversion law in Punjab if the BJP wins the 2027 assembly polls, Mann accused the BJP of attempting to provoke religious conflicts. Wherever they form the government, there are inter-religion fights, he alleged, asserting that their religious card won't work in Punjab. However, Mann acknowledged that religious conversions driven by greed are wrong. Shah had earlier stressed that peace and development in Punjab depend on Hindu-Sikh unity, achievable only under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Financial Disputes and Agricultural Policy Delays
Mann further criticized the Centre for stalling Punjab's share of funds, claiming that Rs 8,000 crore from the rural development fund remains unreleased. The state government has approached the Supreme Court regarding this issue. On agricultural policy, Mann highlighted that key matters like minimum support price (MSP) and the India-US trade deal require central attention before the policy can be finalized. He lamented that the Union government is not ready to speak about farmers and MSP, despite Punjab's significant contributions of 155 lakh tonnes of rice and 125 lakh tonnes of wheat to the central pool. Additionally, he raised concerns over the Seed Bill and the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, noting that farmer consultations are essential for the agriculture policy.
Upcoming Sports Event in Punjab
In a lighter note, Mann announced that Punjab will host the Asia Cup hockey championship this year, with matches scheduled in Jalandhar and Mohali, showcasing the state's commitment to sports development.
