Amid the ongoing crackdown on the drug mafia and criminals by the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh, a former cricketer, has stirred controversy by opposing the state's 'bulldozer action'. The Punjab police, in their latest efforts to curb the growing drug trade, have been using bulldozers to demolish illegal properties allegedly linked to offenders. While the aim is to send a strong message to drug smugglers, Harbhajan Singh has raised concerns over this approach, which could potentially fuel political tensions in the state.

Harbhajan Singh’s Opposition to Bulldozer Action

Harbhajan Singh has openly opposed the destruction of homes, stating, "I am not in favour of demolishing anyone's house." His comments have sparked debate, especially as the ruling AAP government in Punjab intensifies its efforts to tackle crime and illegal activities related to drug smuggling. However, Singh emphasized that strict action should indeed be taken against those involved in drug trafficking, but he believes that demolishing homes is not the appropriate method.

"I support the arrest of drug smugglers, and those supplying drugs must face the law," Singh said. "It is important to understand that drugs are extremely harmful to everyone’s health." While his stance aligns with the government's commitment to tackling the drug menace, his disapproval of demolitions stands in stark contrast to the actions currently being carried out in the state.

Advocating Legal Action Over Demolition

Harbhajan Singh further explained his position by stating that instead of demolishing homes, authorities should investigate how individuals acquired their properties, especially if they are linked to criminal activities. "If someone has built a house and has a roof over their head, the authorities should investigate how they acquired the property. However, demolishing homes is not the right approach," he added. His argument centers on the idea that while illegal actions should be punished, the destruction of people's homes may have far-reaching consequences and could affect innocent people.

Singh did not shy away from acknowledging the need to address illegal encroachments on government land. He advocated for action to reclaim such land but with a more humane approach. "If someone has occupied government land, the authorities should take action and reclaim it. But instead of demolishing homes, the government should relocate residents before vacating the space," he suggested.

Bulldozer Action and Political Backlash

The use of bulldozers to demolish properties linked to criminal activities has been a contentious issue in various states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi, where it has been employed as a tool for law enforcement. While some see it as a decisive and effective means of tackling crime, the practice has frequently been criticized by opposition parties, who argue that it punishes families and residents without addressing the root causes of criminal activities.

Harbhajan Singh’s comments on the issue now provide an opportunity for BJP and Congress to target the Punjab government and potentially weaken its stance on the ongoing crackdown. The controversy could be used by the opposition to paint the ruling party's methods as overly aggressive and harmful to the general public.

A Call for Collective Action Against Drugs

Despite his opposition to the bulldozer action, Harbhajan Singh did not back down from the issue of drug abuse. He reiterated that the drug menace in Punjab must be tackled collectively, urging the people of the state to unite against this social evil. "Drugs are extremely dangerous. People must realise that addiction not only destroys lives but also ruins families. Every Punjabi should actively work against drug abuse and be part of a movement to eradicate it," he said, emphasizing the need for community involvement in combating the drug problem.

Singh’s statement serves as a call for both the government and the public to join forces in the fight against drug abuse while respecting human rights and due process.

Harbhajan Singh's opposition to the 'bulldozer action' has sparked an important debate in Punjab, raising questions about the balance between tough law enforcement and safeguarding the rights of individuals. While the former cricketer strongly supports action against drug smugglers, he advocates for a more measured and lawful approach, one that prioritizes investigation over demolition. His call for collective action against drug abuse underscores the importance of community involvement in solving this pressing issue. As the crackdown continues, the debate surrounding these tactics is likely to intensify, with political ramifications for the AAP government in the days ahead.