Balbir Singh questions BJP’s anti-drug march

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Calls for inquiry into student protests and greater youth awareness of Bhagat Singh’s ideas

Patiala, September 28

Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh on Sunday responded to questions on the controversy surrounding his official bungalow, political defections and issues involving the BJP, while also commenting on student protests and the need to connect young people with Bhagat Singh’s ideas.

Responding to questions about the bungalow and the Gayatri Bishnoi matter, Singh said the circumstances surrounding previous occupants of the government residence should also be examined before allegations were raised against him.

He said those questioning him should also be asked about their own records and roles, including where they lived and what arrangements they made for their party when they were in the Opposition.

On Congress leaders who recently joined the BJP and subsequently criticised their former party, Singh said such political decisions had consequences. He said leaders who leave one party and attack it after joining another may find it difficult to return to their previous political organisation.

Asked about former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and his comments on Congress after joining the BJP, Singh said several leaders who had switched parties continued to speak about their former organisations, while returning back to them was unlikely.

Singh also criticised the BJP over its anti-drug march, referring to issues including the release of Sikh prisoners, Chandigarh, Panjab University and water-related matters. He alleged that the BJP was ignoring Punjab’s interests.

On student protests at various universities, Singh said inquiries were under way and that the underlying issues would become clear after the investigations were completed. He said the administration should take appropriate action based on the findings.

Referring to Bhagat Singh’s birth anniversary, Singh said the revolutionary’s ideas remained relevant and stressed on the need to connect young people with Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev and other freedom fighters and their ideology. He also urged young people to remain aware of their democratic rights and the importance of voting.