Former Dy CM Sukhbir Badal Detained During Court Hearing, Blames Kejriwal Has Hijacked Punjab
Mohali, Punjab (The Uttam Hindu): The situation outside the Mohali court turned tense on Tuesday during the appearance of former minister and senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia in connection with a disproportionate assets case. Majithia, who was recently arrested by Vigilance authorities is accused of amassing assets worth ₹540 crore beyond known sources of income.
Akali Dal president and former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal reached the court premises with a large group of supporters to protest against Majithia’s arrest. However, police officials stopped him from proceeding further citing security concerns. A heated argument ensued between Sukhbir Badal and the police, following which he was taken into custody.
To prevent a mass gathering, several Akali Dal leaders across various districts in Punjab were also detained preemptively. In anticipation of unrest, heavy police deployment and fire brigade teams were stationed around the court premises. Majithia was brought from Amritsar to Mohali under heavy security. After being granted a 7-day remand earlier, he was presented in court again as Vigilance officials sought an extension, citing non-cooperation in the investigation.
Sukhbir Badal’s Explosive Message from Custody
Following his detention, Sukhbir Badal released a video message alleging that Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal has "captured the entire state of Punjab." He said, “Kejriwal is terrified of the Akali Dal and its workers. That is why party leaders across towns and villages have been confined to their homes by the police.”
Badal warned that Punjab’s democratic fabric is under attack and claimed Kejriwal plans to collect ₹10,000 crore from the state in the next one-and-a-half years. “But we, the workers of Akali Dal, will never let that happen,” he asserted.
Allegations of Corruption in Government Appointments
Sukhbir Badal also made serious allegations against the AAP-led Punjab government, accusing it of extorting money for government postings. “From the appointment of SSPs to other officials, the government is allegedly taking bribes. The people of Punjab must realize the extent of this bullying and corruption,” he said. In a strong statement, Badal added, “If Punjabis gave AAP 92 seats last time, they also have the power to ensure that the party forfeits its deposits in the next election.”