BJP rural unit protests outside Ludhiana police commissionerate over crime

LUDHIANA — The rural unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party held a protest outside the office of the Commissioner of Police on Ferozpur Road on [day], against what it termed the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, particularly in rural areas. About 50–60 party leaders and supporters gathered for the demonstration, which began around 11 am.

The protest was led by Gagandeep Singh Sunny Kainth, president of BJP (rural) Ludhiana. Punjab BJP co-spokesperson Pritpal Singh Balyawal was also present.

Addressing the protesters, Kainth alleged that people in Punjab no longer felt safe and that incidents of robbery and snatching were taking place even during the day. He said the alleged rise in crime had created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among residents.

Speaking to The Tribune, Kainth said that incidents of snatching and loot had increased to an alarming proportion in Flower Enclave. He identified delivery boys of Swiggy and Zomato as the most vulnerable victims, saying their cash is snatched almost on a daily basis.

During the protest, Kainth said he received a call that some snatchers had stabbed a resident of the area. He alleged that the police continues to be on sleeping mode and that no FIRs had been lodged at police stations.

The protesters said that the growing graph of crime incidents was a matter of serious concern as people had started feeling insecure. “No place is safe for the public and there is absolutely no fear of law in criminals,” they stated.

Kainth said ensuring the safety of people and their property was the government’s foremost responsibility. He alleged that the increasing number of criminal incidents raised questions over the functioning of the government and police administration. He demanded immediate steps to curb incidents of robbery and snatching and strict action against those involved in such crimes.

Kainth said traders should be able to run their businesses without fear and families should feel safe. He added that the BJP would continue to raise the issue of public safety and warned that the party would intensify its agitation if effective measures were not taken to check criminal incidents.

The protesters raised slogans against the police and the government. The BJP leaders also submitted a memorandum to the Commissioner of Police in this regard.