Punjab Assembly Session Begins with Tributes; Cheema Targets BJP Over Bishnoi’s Jail Operations

National News: The Punjab Legislative Assembly commenced its two-day special session today, beginning with heartfelt tributes to several prominent personalities who recently passed away. Those remembered included Tarn Taran legislator Dr. Kashmir Singh Sohal, former Union Minister Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, the victims of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, and Abohar's textile trader Sanjay Verma.

Following the condolence motion, Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan adjourned the House proceedings till 10 a.m. the next day.

Harpal Cheema’s Message to Opposition: Participate, Don’t Boycott

Speaking to the press after the day's session, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that several crucial legislative bills and resolutions are scheduled for discussion on the second day. He appealed to opposition parties to contribute meaningfully to debates rather than opting for boycotts just to grab media attention.

“I hope the opposition will engage seriously in the discussions rather than merely staging walkouts to make headlines,” he said.

Cheema Blames BJP for Gangster's Reach from Gujarat Jail

Addressing the recent killing of a businessman in Abohar, Cheema made a strong accusation, alleging that notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, despite being lodged in a Gujarat prison, is still coordinating criminal activities in Punjab.

He further alleged that Bishnoi enjoys protection under the Gujarat administration. “It’s no secret that Gujarat is a BJP-ruled state. Both the Prime Minister and Home Minister hail from there. And yet, a gangster sitting in a Gujarat jail is able to orchestrate crimes in Punjab—this is deeply concerning,” Cheema stated.

Opposition’s Discomfort Shows in Anti-Drug Campaign: Cheema

Cheema also pointed out that the state’s strong crackdown on the drug network has rattled both Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal. “When we began arresting top drug smugglers, Congress questioned why their people were being detained. Meanwhile, Akali Dal took to the streets, indirectly defending those involved in drug crimes,” he said.

He added, “Our government remains committed to eradicating the drug menace from Punjab. No one—regardless of their power or connections—will be spared if found guilty.”

#WATCH | Chandigarh | On Abohar businessman murder case, Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema says, " In the case of the murder of a businessman in Abohar, when action was taken against the accused, many big leaders of the BJP were rattled. Many BJP leaders, from Punjab to Delhi,… pic.twitter.com/IwjnI6RrnP

— ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2025