Those opposing Johal’s arrest are against Punjab’s interests: CM Amarinder Singh

CHANDIGARH: Lashing out at the opposition for raising doubts over the arrest of UK citizen

Jagtar Singh Johal

alias Jaggi in the targeted killing cases in Punjab and allegations of torture by police, chief minister Amarinder Singh on Friday accused them of acting against Punjab’s interest by echoing the baseless statements.

The chief minister was reacting to the statement made by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders. He termed their comments as unfortunate. Amarinder said that by making unfounded allegations against the Punjab government and police, such elements were trying to disturb the state’s peace and harmony. Stating it was a well-planned conspiracy at work, Amarinder challenged leaders of both the parties to prove the allegations of human rights violation of the accused Johal.

He said that the due process of law is being followed at every step from the moment of Johal’s arrest, be it the permission to talk to his family or having consular access, his medical examinations and his timely production in court. He added that Jaggi was arrested by the police on grave charges in major cases based on strong evidence against him.

The CM said that none of the foreign governments that were reportedly decrying Johal’s arrest and alleging his torture had approached either his government or the Indian government on the issue and they had no face to do so as all their allegations were totally baseless.

Referring the statements of the leaders of AAP and SAD, Amarinder said that the whole issue was being sought to be politicized by certain pro-Khalistani elements and it was unfortunate that Punjab’s own leaders were adding their voice to these elements.