Chandigarh, July 11: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday announced that the state is exploring legal options to bring gangster Lawrence Bishnoi back from Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail to serve time in a Punjab prison. Speaking after the second day’s session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Mann alleged that Bishnoi continues to run his criminal operations from Gujarat under BJP’s watch.
“We are looking at all legal possibilities to bring him back to Punjab. That’s the only way to break his network. He is operating from Sabarmati Jail under BJP’s protection,” Mann told reporters.
Taking a sharp dig at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Mann referred to him as “tadipaar” — an exile — recalling past restrictions on Shah’s movement in Gujarat. “Now such people are Home Ministers. What else can you expect?” he remarked.
Mann also responded to a legal notice served by BJP Delhi leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa to AAP Punjab president Aman Arora. “Before sending notices, Sirsa should answer who has harboured and protected gangsters all these years,” Mann said.
The chief minister further targeted the Centre over its foreign policy, reacting to criticism from the Ministry of External Affairs against his earlier statements. “Can’t I ask questions about foreign trips and business interests? Wherever the Prime Minister goes, Adani’s business seems to follow. Are these trips for national interests or corporate expansion?” he asked.
Mann also questioned India’s international standing amid tensions with Pakistan. “When conflict started, no country stood by us. But our PM is busy circling the globe, visiting countries people can’t even name. He should instead speak to the 140 crore citizens here,” he said.
He wrapped up with a call for immediate attention to regional issues. “Before flying abroad, the Centre should resolve the Punjab-Haryana water dispute. The people here are waiting,” Mann added.
