Chandigarh, April 15: Sunil Jakhar, the Punjab BJP state president, has criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government led by Bhagwant Mann, claiming it has set new records in corruption. This statement comes in light of the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) recent raid on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal’s residence and Lovely Institute.
In an interview in Chandigarh, Jakhar defended the ED’s actions, linking them to an alleged education scam. He emphasized that Mittal, who is both a Rajya Sabha member and the owner of Lovely University, intensifies the seriousness of the situation.
Jakhar noted that on April 8 and 9, the Punjab and Haryana High Court made strong remarks regarding a purported ₹230 crore scam in the SCBC post-matric scholarship scheme. The court expressed frustration over the lack of initial investigations or FIRs in the past four years, warning that strict measures would be taken if police did not act.
He stated that the ED’s actions should be viewed in this context, benefiting the underprivileged students who have been deprived of education. Citing Bhimrao Ambedkar’s ideals, Jakhar reiterated the relevance of the message to “Educate, Organize, and Agitate.”
Jakhar accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of failing to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. He alleged collusion between the AAP and Congress, suggesting both parties are corrupt. He also referenced the tenure of former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, noting that while the ED acted during that time, the government did not take the matter seriously.
Expressing concern over rising corruption in the state, Jakhar highlighted irregularities in education, employment, and administrative appointments. He pointed out that numerous positions remain unfilled, yet the government has failed to address this issue.
On the water crisis, he remarked that it is not only a technical issue but also an emotional one for Punjab. Therefore, the state government’s active and trustworthy participation is crucial in every related decision.
Leave a Comment