Amit Shah Blames 'Aapda' Government for Punjab's Drug Crisis, Launches Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, blaming its "poor governance" for the state's serious drug problem. Speaking at an event, Shah said the people of Punjab are waging a decisive battle against drugs, and to unite the state in eradicating them, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched the 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra' on September 18.

Shah's remarks come amid a political blame game over the drug menace in Punjab, which has been a major poll issue. The BJP has been trying to make inroads in the state, where AAP is in power. The 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra' is seen as a move to consolidate anti-drug sentiment and corner the AAP government. Shah did not provide specific data or examples to back his allegations, but the drug problem in Punjab has been widely documented, with several reports highlighting the prevalence of drug abuse in the state.

The launch of the yatra is likely to intensify political tensions between the BJP and AAP, with the latter expected to counter the allegations. The yatra will traverse various parts of Punjab, aiming to mobilize public support for a drug-free state. The development also comes ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where Punjab will be a key battleground. The BJP's move is seen as an attempt to regain lost ground in the state, while AAP will seek to defend its record. The effectiveness of the yatra in addressing the drug problem remains to be seen, but it has certainly set the stage for a fierce political battle.