In a surprise early morning operation today, Sukhpal Singh Khaira, a prominent Congress leader and Bolath MLA, was arrested by Punjab police at his Sector 5 residence in Chandigarh. Sources reveal that his arrest is linked to an old case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Jalalabad, Fazilka.
Arrest Sparks Political Controversy
A team of Fazilka police, led by a Superintendent of Police (SP)-rank officer, arrived at Khaira’s residence to carry out the arrest, prompting a heated confrontation between Khaira and the police personnel.
Demand for Arrest Warrants and Identity Disclosure
Khaira was seen arguing vociferously with the police personnel, demanding to see his arrest warrants. He also raised concerns about the identity of some officers who were in plain clothes. In response, a police officer identified as DSP Jalalabad, Acchru Ram Sharma, disclosed his identity and explained the nature of the case.
Khaira’s Claims and Supreme Court Reference
During the confrontation, Khaira claimed that the case against him had already been quashed by the Supreme Court, adding that his arrest was politically motivated. He expressed his displeasure with what he called “highhandedness by the state government.”
This incident unfolded on a Facebook live video stream by Khaira, where he accused the authorities of arresting him to settle political scores.
Political Tensions Rise
Khaira’s arrest has heightened political tensions in Punjab, with his party, the Congress, alleging political vendetta by the ruling government. The incident is expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape in the state.
In Summary
- Sukhpal Singh Khaira, Congress MLA, was arrested by Punjab police in connection with an old NDPS case.
- Khaira demanded to see his arrest warrants and asked plain-clothed police officers to identify themselves.
- DSP Jalalabad, Acchru Ram Sharma, identified himself and explained the case.
- Khaira claimed that the case had already been quashed by the Supreme Court.
- The arrest has led to political controversy and tensions in Punjab.
