Punjab CM condemns social activist’s murder, those responsible for crime will face action

Chandigarh, Oct 14 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday condemned the murder of social activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa, asserting that everyone responsible for the crime would face strict action, with the main accused already arrested within 24 hours.

Declaring that the state’s hard-earned peace and law and order would not be compromised at any cost, the Chief Minister warned that anyone found involved in a conspiracy behind the murder would also be brought to justice.

Amid the call of the state shutdown by political and social organisations on Thursday, Chief Minister Mann said, “Punjab has earned its peace through immense effort and sacrifice. We must protect this atmosphere of brotherhood and harmony at all costs. The state government will take firm action against those responsible for this murder while ensuring that peace and law and order are maintained across the state.”

Reaffirming the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, the Chief Minister said no drug peddler, regardless of their influence or power, would be spared, as protecting Punjab’s youth from the drug menace remained a top priority.

In a statement, Mann added, “The Punjab Police will leave no stone unturned in investigating the case, and exemplary punishment will be ensured for the culprits.”

He said he has directed the Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav to ensure a thorough investigation so that the truth comes out and everyone involved in this crime is identified.

The main accused has already been arrested within 24 hours.

“If the investigation reveals the involvement of any other individual or organisation in a conspiracy behind this murder, they will also not be spared.”

Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, the Chief Minister said the death of Jhota is an irreparable loss for his family as well as society.

“My heartfelt condolences are with the family in this hour of grief. The state government will ensure that those responsible for this crime face strict action in accordance with the law.”

The Chief Minister said the state government has launched a determined campaign against the sale and supply of all kinds of drugs, whether illegally sold intoxicating medicines or conventional narcotics such as chitta.

“No leniency will be shown to anyone involved in this crime against humanity, regardless of how influential or powerful they may be.”

The Chief Minister clarified that the sale of drugs will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

–IANS

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