Kejriwal Levels Serious Allegations Against Centre
Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday ignited a fresh political controversy by accusing the BJP-led Centre of shielding jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Speaking at a public event in Punjab, the former Delhi Chief Minister alleged that the notorious gangster continues to operate with protection from powerful quarters despite being lodged in a high-security prison.
Using unusually sharp language, Kejriwal described Bishnoi as the BJP’s “son-in-law,” claiming that authorities have ensured he remains beyond the reach of state law enforcement agencies.
Questions Raised Over Access to Bishnoi
Addressing party workers and traders in Jalandhar, Kejriwal questioned why Punjab Police officers are required to travel outside the state whenever they need to interrogate Bishnoi.
“Lawrence Bishnoi is sitting in Sabarmati jail under full protection. Even when investigations relate to Punjab, officers have to go there to question him,” Kejriwal alleged.
He further claimed that the gangster continues to maintain influence over criminal networks despite being incarcerated, alleging that his operations extend far beyond Punjab.
AAP Claims Crackdown on Crime
Defending the performance of the AAP government in Punjab, Kejriwal argued that his administration has aggressively pursued organised crime and gang-related activities.
According to him, several wanted criminals have been brought back from foreign countries and action against criminal syndicates has intensified since AAP assumed power in the state.
“Gangster culture did not originate during our tenure. We inherited this challenge and are tackling it head-on,” he told the gathering.
Drug Trafficking Becomes New Political Flashpoint
The AAP chief also turned his attention to narcotics trafficking, alleging that Gujarat has emerged as a major route for illegal drugs entering India.
Kejriwal claimed that Punjab had significantly reduced smuggling attempts along the international border through anti-drone measures, forcing trafficking routes to shift elsewhere.
He referred to past large-scale narcotics seizures and questioned how substantial quantities of drugs were able to enter the country despite strict enforcement mechanisms.
BJP Yet to Respond
The remarks have added another layer to the ongoing political confrontation between the AAP and the BJP ahead of key electoral battles. While Kejriwal’s comments generated immediate political attention, there was no immediate response from BJP leaders regarding the allegations.
The latest exchange underscores the growing intensity of the political narrative around crime, law enforcement and narcotics trafficking, issues that are expected to remain central themes in the run-up to future elections.
