AAP govt has imposed 'undeclared censorship' on media in Punjab: BJP

New Delhi: The BJP on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, alleging the Bhagwant Mann government is busy managing headlines and cover-ups when the state is reeling under a "deteriorating" law and order situation, drug menace and "rampant" crime.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters here, party national general secretary Tarun Chugh also raised the issue of paper leaks in Punjab and accused the AAP government of protecting those involved.

"People in Punjab are living in the atmosphere of fear because the gangsters and mafia are ruling the state under the protection of the AAP government," Chugh alleged.


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Chugh alleged that the Bhagwant Mann government has imposed "undeclared censorship" on media in Punjab. The chief minister's office is deciding what should be published in print media and aired on the news channels, the BJP leader charged.

On the issue of drug menace, the BJP leader took on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, alleging that his government's state-wide 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' (war against drugs) campaign is nothing but "a sham and a drama aimed at grabbing headlines".

"How can a leader go out and ask people to shun substance abuse when he himself is doing 'nasha'?" the BJP Rajya Sabha MP asked, demanding that Mann should undergo a "dope test" before exhorting others to quit drugs.

There was no immediate response from AAP to the BJP's allegations.

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Chugh alleged that the AAP dispensation in Punjab has become a "big example" of misuse of government machinery.

"Those meant to be protectors have turned into predators, devouring Punjab's economy, peace and assets. Exam papers are being leaked. Law and order has crumbled. Extortion and torture centres are rampant," the BJP leader alleged.

"The mafia is running the government in Punjab. The entire state is gripped in an atmosphere of fear. Anyone who raises a voice is beaten or killed," Chugh added, alleging that instead of taking action, the Bhagwant Mann government is engaged in cover-up and headline management.

"All attempts are being made to cover up all scandals in Punjab," Chugh added.