Punjab Govt Denies Allegations on Law and Order Deterioration

 Chandigarh, February 21- Asserting that the ongoing farmers’ agitation has been aptly and diligently handled in the state, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s Punjab government strongly refutes allegations of deteriorating law and order.

Under the directive of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Chief Secretary Anurag Verma wrote to the Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. He clarifies that Punjab did not permit large gatherings at Shambhu and Dhabi-Gujran borders.

The Haryana Police restrained the farmers’ groups attempting to march to Delhi, resulting in crowds assembling at the Punjab-Haryana borders. Despite this, gatherings in Punjab remained largely peaceful, with minimal incidents reported; however, injuries occurred due to actions by the Haryana Police.

The Punjab government, through regular dialogues between state officials and farm leaders, has managed crowds orderly. Although internal reports are gathering potential action, there is no concrete evidence of miscreants among protestors. The farm unions are directing their demands at the Government of India, which Punjab has actively facilitated in conducting four negotiation meetings.

The Chief Secretary urges the Government of India to consider farm unions’ demands sympathetically for an amicable resolution. While acknowledging the sensitive law and order issues in the border state, Punjab ensures control with a strong police presence and constant review. Moreover, authorities regularly assess the situation to adapt strategies and maintain stability along the borders. Given the comprehensive police deployment and vigilance, with readiness for stringent action against disruptive activities, authorities deem the reliance on media reports misplaced.