Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday launched a scathing critique of the prevailing drug menace and deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, attributing these challenges as significant threats to the state’s future.
Kharge, speaking at a press conference in Amritsar, highlighted the profound disillusionment among Punjab's youth due to the pervasive issue of drug addiction. “The rampant drug addiction gripping Punjab represents one of the gravest challenges for the state’s future,” Kharge emphasized, drawing attention to the urgent need for effective intervention measures.
He further lamented the declining law and order standards under the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP Government, condemning the widespread deterioration across the State.
Kharge's remarks, laden with criticism of AAP's governance in Punjab, came shortly after AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal indirectly blamed the Congress for the state’s woes during a public event in Ludhiana. Kejriwal’s statement, suggesting the need for change after decades of Congress and Akali Dal rule, added fuel to the political fire, exacerbating tensions between the rival parties.
“The situation is deteriorating with each passing day,” Kharge asserted, echoing concerns about the worsening conditions under AAP’s tenure. He seized the opportunity to denounce the Central Government's policies, particularly targeting the adverse impact of demonetization and GST on Punjab's small and medium industries.
Kharge also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, rebuffing their predictions of his impending departure as party president on June 4, coinciding with the Lok Sabha election results announcement. “Amit Shah and Modi are saying that I will lose my job on June 4th. I did not come into politics to work, I came to serve. Let me tell you, as much as Modi's age is, my experience in working in politics, becoming an MLA, and MP is till date,” he said.
Rahaul Gandhi in Ludhiana today
On Wednesday morning, the political fervor in Ludhiana will reach its peak as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is set to address a rally in support of the party’s candidates contesting from Ludhiana, Faridkot, and Hoshiarpur Lok Sabha constituencies. Rahul Gandhi will rally support for the formidable contenders representing their respective constituencies — Punjab Congress president and party candidate from Ludhiana Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Faridkot candidate Amarjit Kaur Sahoke, and Hoshiarpur candidate Yamini Gomar — during the rally scheduled to commence at 10:30 am at Dana Mandi Dakha in Ludhiana. The event is poised to energize supporters and galvanize momentum as the Congress reinforces its campaign efforts in these crucial constituencies for the June 1 polls.