“I have complete faith in the law of the country and unwavering trust in the justice system. I have not run anywhere; I am here in my Punjab… I am voluntarily surrendering myself in Mandi Gobindgarh.” This statement from Laljit Singh Bhullar came as he was arrested in connection with the death of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, a district manager of the Punjab Warehousing Corporation.
Randhawa allegedly died by suicide after consuming poison, leaving behind a video in which he accused Bhullar of harassment. The arrest followed a 24-hour ultimatum issued by Randhawa’s family for Bhullar’s apprehension.
Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh confirmed Bhullar’s arrest in Mandi Gobindgarh. An FIR has been registered against him under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including abetment to suicide.
Just two days prior to his arrest, Bhullar resigned from his cabinet position amid growing allegations of harassment. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hinted at a possible CBI investigation into the case.
In a further twist, the Punjab Police have also booked Bhullar’s father and personal assistant under the same charges. Opposition parties are claiming that Bhullar’s arrest is a result of pressure on the AAP government.
Bhullar has denied allegations of absconding, asserting that he is surrendering voluntarily. Political reactions have been swift, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stating, “For me, the entire Punjab is one family. If anyone in Punjab violates the law, strict action will be taken against them.”
Arvind Kejriwal, leader of the AAP, emphasized the government’s prompt action against Bhullar, stating, “The AAP government took immediate action against that Minister without any delay or discrimination, not only removing him from his position but also getting him arrested.”
However, Sunil Jakhar from the opposition suggested that the AAP government is reluctant for the case to be handed over to the CBI, fearing exposure of deeper connections involving AAP leaders.
As investigations continue, the political landscape in Punjab remains tense, with all eyes on the developments surrounding Bhullar’s case.
