By Amrit Pal Sidhu
Dhirowali (Gurdaspur) 19 October
In light of growing concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, Senior Congress leaders embarked on a series of visits across the state to address public grievances and extend support to families impacted by recent crimes.
These visits, aimed at both assessing the ground realities and fortifying the party's organizational framework, highlighted the Congress party's commitment to tackling the pressing issue of public safety.
The delegation, led by Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President S. Pargat Singh, Congress In-charge Sachin Pilot, and Opposition Leader Pratap Singh Bajwa, held multiple meetings with local leaders, affected families, and party workers.
The leaders were warmly received at the residence of MP Sukjinder Singh Randhawa in Dharowali village, where they discussed strategies to strengthen the party’s resolve in addressing the state’s escalating crime rates. The discussions continued at the home of MLA Barindermit Singh Pahra in Gurdaspur, where Congress workers gathered to deliberate on ways to bolster the party's organizational structure and responsiveness.
The Congress leaders made it a priority to meet with families who have suffered due to recent violent incidents. Sachin Pilot, along with other senior leaders, visited the family of Varun Mahajan in Gurdaspur, who was a victim of a tragic robbery. During their visit, they offered condolences and reassured the family that their voices would be heard. The delegation emphasized that such incidents underscore the urgent need for improved governance and law enforcement.
Another poignant visit was to the family of ASI Joga Singh in Ghaniye Ke Bangar village. The police officer was killed near Majitha on May 24, 2026, in an incident that has sparked widespread concern about the safety of law enforcement personnel and citizens alike. The leaders expressed their deepest sympathies and discussed with the family members how this tragedy reflects broader issues with Punjab's security apparatus.
The delegation also travelled to Batala to meet the family of Kanav Mahajan, a young man who lost his life in a shooting incident on October 10, 2025. The senseless killing has become yet another symbol of the escalating violence plaguing the state. Similarly, the leaders visited the grieving family of Randeep Singh Bedi, a well-known businessman from Dera Baba Nanak who was murdered in a brutal attack just months ago.
Following their visits, the Congress leaders addressed members of the press to outline their concerns over Punjab’s worsening law and order situation. They highlighted the alarming rise in incidents such as robberies, murders, and gangster-related activities across the state. Sachin Pilot criticized the Mann government for its perceived inability to ensure public safety and called for immediate steps to restore order.
“The spate of crimes we are witnessing is deeply troubling,” said Pilot during a press briefing. “The murder of an ASI, shootings, and robberies have left Punjab’s residents feeling unsafe in their own homes. This is unacceptable. The government must be held accountable for its failure to protect its citizens.”
Pargat Singh echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that public safety is a fundamental responsibility of any government. “The people of Punjab deserve to live without fear," he stated. "Our visits are not just about extending condolences; they are about ensuring that these incidents are not brushed under the carpet. We will continue to demand action until we see real change.”
In addition to addressing public safety concerns, the Congress leaders used this opportunity to strengthen their party’s organizational framework in Punjab. Meetings with local Congress workers focused on mobilizing grassroots efforts to connect with citizens and amplify their concerns. The leaders urged party members to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing issues faced by their communities
“The Congress party has always stood by the people of Punjab,” said Pratap Singh Bajwa. “We are committed to fighting for justice for every citizen who has been wronged and for creating an environment where such incidents do not recur.”
The Congress party’s outreach efforts underscore its determination to hold those in power accountable while supporting affected families. By meeting with victims’ families and engaging with local communities, Congress leaders have sent a clear message: addressing public safety is not just a political issue but a moral imperative.