Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has launched a scathing attack against the central government, accusing it of attempting to snatch away Punjab's constitutional rights regarding the state's claim over Chandigarh as its capital.
Allegations of Constitutional Conspiracy
During his Monday visit to Mohali deputy mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi's residence, Warring expressed serious concerns about what he described as a deliberate attempt to weaken Punjab's position. The PPCC chief revealed that while watching Parliament TV proceedings, he learned about a new amendment linked to Article 25 with mentions of Article 240, which he believes is part of a larger conspiracy against Punjab.
"Chandigarh was carved out from the land of Punjab's villages. No one can undermine our rights," Warring asserted emphatically. He reiterated the historical significance of Chandigarh to Punjab, stating that the city has always been and will remain the capital of Punjab despite what he perceives as the Union government's efforts to dilute the state's legitimate claim.
Deteriorating Law and Order Situation
Beyond the constitutional battle, Warring expressed deep concern about the alarming deterioration of law and order in Mohali. He highlighted that the area has increasingly become a center for gangster activities, with extortion attempts becoming so commonplace that only one out of a hundred victims approaches the police.
"The rest choose to pay up silently out of fear," Warring claimed, adding that this pattern reflects how badly the security environment has deteriorated in the region. His comments pointed to a growing sense of insecurity among residents and business owners who prefer silence over confrontation with criminal elements.
Addressing Internal Party Issues
The PPCC chief also took the opportunity to address the recent controversy involving the alleged mistreatment of deputy mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi during a Congress rally in Mohali. Without naming any specific individuals, Warring emphasized that no individual has the right to humiliate another, regardless of circumstances.
"Sometimes situations escalate, and apologies follow, but such incidents should never take place," he stated, while praising Bedi as a senior and committed leader who has strengthened the party by winning the councillor seat four times consecutively.
The meeting at Bedi's residence saw the presence of newly appointed District Congress Committee President Kamal Sharma along with several other prominent local leaders and workers, where they discussed grassroots issues affecting the party and the region.
