No leader is above law in Punjab: Sohal

By Bharat Sharma

The AAP leader Angad Deep Singh Sohal criticised Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa and his son over their alleged misbehaviour with police officials at a police station, saying that no political leader was above the law and that action would follow an investigation.

Addressing a press conference, Sohal said the alleged conduct reflected what he described as VIP culture and a mindset of political intimidation. He said police stations were meant to serve the public and ensure justice, not provide a platform for political influence. No leader, irrespective of party affiliation, had the right to insult personnel performing their duties, he added.

Responding to questions from journalists, Sohal said the matter was under investigation, and action would be taken after the inquiry. Asked about an argument involving an AAP leader and a police officer, he said the law was equal for everyone, and action would be taken against anyone found at fault, regardless of political affiliation.

Sohal also responded to Congress leaders’ criticism of law and order in Punjab and the police force’s performance. He said the state government was taking action through its ‘War Against Gangsters’ and ‘War Against Drugs’ campaigns across the state. He claimed that police had arrested the accused and other suspects within 12 hours of a murder in Tarn Taran.

On allegations levelled by Partap Singh Bajwa against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Sohal said opposition parties had no issue with which to challenge the government and were trying to defame the Chief Minister.

Responding to Sukhpal Khaira’s allegation of an alleged Rs 32 lakh fraud in police recruitment, Sohal said anyone who had been cheated should lodge a complaint with the police.

He said the government stood with police personnel who performed their duties and would not allow anyone to remain above the law in Punjab.