Congress leader Pawan Khera launched an attack on the Central government over drug smuggling, border security and alleged vote theft during his visit to Jalandhar. Referring to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit to Punjab, Khera questioned the Centre’s policies on security along the 50-km border belt and its efforts to stop the drug trade.
Speaking to the media, Khera questioned why drug smuggling at Gujarat’s Mundra Port had not been stopped despite the BJP being in power in the state for several years, and he also took a dig at the BJP’s ‘double-engine government’ model, questioning its effectiveness in tackling the drug menace.
Khera said the people of Punjab were aware of the situation and could not be misled by political statements. He added that while the BJP and the Punjab government continued to blame each other over the drug problem, the people of the state were suffering.
He also criticised the Punjab government over what he described as a betrayal of the promises made before coming to power. Khera said there was considerable public anger against the government.
During his visit, Khera met Punjab Congress leaders, including Pargat Singh and Sachin Pilot, and the discussions focused on election strategy and maintaining unity among party workers.
Commenting on Pargat Singh’s appointment to a leadership position, Khera said there was enthusiasm within the party. He described Singh as a leader with a sportsman’s spirit and the ability to take everyone along.Raises ‘vote theft’ issue
Khera also spoke about the Congress’s campaign against alleged vote theft, saying the issue was being raised across the country.
Referring to the Ankita Bhandari case, he criticised the BJP over the appointment of individuals facing serious allegations to positions of authority and linked his criticism to the broader political debate surrounding elections and alleged electoral malpractice.
Khera’s Jalandhar visit comes amid preparations by political parties for the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. The Congress is focusing on party unity and election strategy as it prepares to challenge the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government in the state.
