AAP workers protest alleged misuse of central agencies
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest outside the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Dugri, Ludhiana, on Wednesday, alleging political misuse of central investigative agencies including the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED).
The protest followed the CBI action at the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office and yesterday’s developments, with AAP leaders and workers raising slogans against the central government and the investigative agencies.
Police put up barricades outside BJP office
A large police force was deployed in the area as AAP workers gathered outside the BJP office. Police officials erected barricades to prevent protesters from moving towards the office and made security arrangements to control the situation.
AAP workers repeatedly attempted to cross the barricades, leading to pushing and shoving between protesters and police personnel. Leaders and workers from both sides also raised slogans during the confrontation.
Party alleges political targeting
AAP Ludhiana district president Jatinder Khangura alleged that the Centre was repeatedly using agencies such as the CBI and ED against political opponents.
The party said the protest was organised to oppose what it described as the misuse of central agencies to suppress opposition voices. AAP workers expressed anger over the CBI action and called for a strong response from the party.
Security tightened, traffic affected
The Ludhiana police administration had made additional security arrangements around the BJP office in anticipation of the protest. Barricades and route diversions were put in place to manage traffic and prevent the situation from escalating.
Police personnel remained deployed at the spot as AAP protesters continued their demonstration outside the BJP office.
