Gang Violence and Narcotics Trade Spark Criticism of Punjab Administration

The assassination of drug‑reform activist Parvinder Singh Jhotta in Manasa has become a flashpoint for criticism aimed at Punjab's ruling party. Leaders from the Shiromani Akali Dal and the BJP seized on the incident to question the state's ability to curb organized crime.

Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema warned that even a chemist selling narcotics can become a gunman when confronted. He cited recent grenade attacks on police stations and a rocket‑launcher strike on the intelligence headquarters as proof that security forces are overwhelmed.

The opposition demands a thorough investigation and immediate steps to protect those fighting the narcotics trade. They assert that the government's failure to control drug distribution is eroding public trust and endangering citizens.

Early police statements indicate the shooter acted after a heated argument over Jhotta's anti‑drug campaign. The episode has heightened alarm among civil society groups about the risks they face.