AAP vs Media? Punjab Kesari Cries ‘Targeted Attacks’, Political Storm Erupts in Punjab

Delhi: A fresh political and media controversy has erupted in Punjab after the Punjab Kesari Group accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led state government of carrying out what it described as a systematic campaign of harassment. The media house has alleged that multiple government departments were used to intimidate and pressure it following the publication of a report last year that carried opposition allegations against the ruling party’s national leadership.

In a detailed communication addressed to Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the group claimed that the situation escalated soon after an article published in late October. According to the group, the report was factual and balanced, but it allegedly triggered a series of actions that, in their view, amounted to economic and administrative pressure. The group also claimed that government advertisements were abruptly withdrawn, impacting its financial operations.

The Punjab Kesari Group further alleged that between January 11 and January 15, several enforcement agencies carried out inspections and raids at its associated establishments. These included visits by food safety officials, GST authorities, excise officials, and factory inspectors at printing presses and hospitality properties linked to the group in cities such as Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Bathinda. The group also alleged that electricity supply to one of its hotels was disconnected and that police personnel were stationed outside multiple press locations, disrupting normal working conditions.

Describing these actions as an attack on independent journalism, the group said that its printing and publishing activities were affected and warned that such measures could have a chilling effect on press freedom in the state.

The Punjab government, however, strongly rejected the allegations. In an official response, the AAP government termed the accusations politically motivated and described them as an attempt to create a false narrative of vendetta. It maintained that all actions taken by various departments were routine and based on reported violations. Referring to one of the excise inspections, the government claimed that large quantities of liquor were allegedly found stored at locations not authorised under existing rules.

The issue quickly drew reactions from opposition parties. Punjab Congress leaders expressed concern, calling the allegations troubling and warning that intimidation of the media undermines democratic values. Leaders from the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal also criticised the state government, accusing it of misusing power to silence critical voices. Opposition leaders demanded transparency and urged constitutional authorities to take note of the developments.