Punjab's poll drug debate has old players in new roles: BJP, Cong attack; AAP defends
The drug menace in Punjab has become a central issue in the state's politics, with the BJP and Congress attacking the ruling AAP government for its failure to control it. This problem has historically shadowed elections in Punjab, with parties making promises to eradicate drugs, only to face similar accusations when in power. The roles of political parties have now shifted, with AAP defending its record after previously criticizing others.
Why it matters
The persistent drug problem in Punjab has significant social and economic consequences, and its politicization highlights the ongoing struggle to address it. This issue impacts public trust and electoral outcomes in a key Indian state, reflecting broader governance challenges.
NEW DELHI: "The sarpanch is also responsible for my death. I had questioned Cheema about drugs. My son takes drugs. My house was sold. I don't have anything and finally now I have consumed poison. The problem of drugs has not been solved anywhere in Punjab."Those were among the last recorded words of Gulzar Singh, a 47-year-old Dalit man from Dirba in Sangrur district, before his death. His family alleged that he had been pushed to the edge after questioning Punjab finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema about the easy availability of drugs in the area.Gulzar died, but his words reverberated across poll-bound Punjab. The BJP, Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal trained their guns on the Bhagwant Mann government, accusing it of failing to control the drug menace. AAP hit back, questioning their own records in power.Drugs have shadowed election after election in the state.
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