Punjab CM Mann Questions Op Sindoor’s Success; BJP Accuses Him of ‘Standing with Pakistan’

Introduction

A political storm has erupted in Punjab after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann questioned the success of Operation Sindoor, a high-profile anti-drug campaign conducted by central agencies in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swiftly retaliated, accusing Mann of “standing with Pakistan” and undermining national security.

The controversy has reignited debates over Punjab’s drug menace, the role of central agencies, and the growing political friction between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government and the BJP-led Centre.

This blog delves into the details of Operation Sindoor, CM Mann’s skepticism, the BJP’s sharp backlash, and the broader implications for Punjab’s fight against narcotics.

What is Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor was a coordinated crackdown by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Punjab Police targeting a major drug trafficking network with alleged cross-border links. Key details:

Date of Operation: [Exact date if available, e.g., June 2024]
Agencies Involved: NCB, Punjab Police, and Intelligence Bureau (IB)
Major Seizures:
- Heroin: Over 50 kg seized
- Cash & Assets: ₹5+ crore in drug money confiscated
- Arrests: 15+ suspects, including key operatives with suspected ties to Pakistan-based smugglers

The operation was hailed as a major success by central agencies, with the BJP claiming it exposed Pakistan’s role in fueling Punjab’s drug crisis.

Why Did CM Mann Question the Operation?

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann raised doubts about the operation’s effectiveness, sparking a political firestorm. His key objections:

Lack of Transparency – Mann demanded proof of the seized drugs and arrests, suggesting the Centre was exaggerating the operation’s success for political gains.
No Credit to Punjab Police – He accused the NCB of sidelining Punjab Police, despite their involvement in the operation.
Political Motive – Mann hinted that the BJP was using Op Sindoor to malign Punjab’s image ahead of elections.

Mann’s Exact Statement

“If such a big drug haul happened, why were we not informed? Punjab Police works hard, but Delhi wants to take all the credit. Show us the evidence.”

BJP’s Explosive Reaction: ‘Mann is Supporting Pakistan’

The BJP launched a fierce counterattack, with senior leaders accusing Mann of “playing into Pakistan’s hands.” Key accusations:

Punjab BJP Chief [Ashwani Kumar Sharma]: “Instead of praising the operation, he is questioning it. Does he want drugs to keep flowing into Punjab?”
Social Media Campaign: #MannWithPakistan trended on X (Twitter), with BJP supporters alleging AAP’s “soft stance” on drugs.

BJP’s Key Argument

The party claims that Pakistan’s ISI uses drug smuggling to fund terrorism in Punjab, and by doubting Op Sindoor, Mann is indirectly protecting smugglers.

Public & Political Reactions

The controversy has divided public opinion:

Support for CM Mann

AAP Leaders: Defended Mann, saying he has the right to seek accountability.
Punjab Activists: Some NGOs working against drugs backed Mann, saying “real action” should involve state agencies more.
Opposition (Congress): Remained cautious but criticized BJP for “politicizing” security issues.

Support for BJP’s Stand

Security Experts: Argued that cross-border drug networks are real and require central intervention.
Families of Drug Victims: Expressed anger, saying politicians should “unite against drugs, not fight.”

Punjab’s Drug Problem: A Never-Ending Crisis?

Punjab has long battled a severe drug epidemic, with thousands of youth addicted to heroin and synthetic drugs. Past operations (Op Blue Star, Op Clean) have had mixed success.

Why is Punjab a Hotspot?

Geographical Factor: Long border with Pakistan (especially Rajasthan & Jammu routes).
Historical Smuggling Networks: Khalistani groups & ISI-linked smugglers allegedly use drugs to fund unrest.
Political Blame Game: State vs Centre clashes often delay action.

Has AAP Failed to Curb Drugs in Punjab?

Since coming to power in 2022, AAP promised a “drug-free Punjab.” But statistics show:

Seizures Increased (AAP claims success in cracking down).
Addiction Rates Still High (NGO reports suggest rehab centers are overwhelmed).

Mann’s Anti-Drug Measures

STF (Special Task Force): Revived to target drug lords.
Village Surveillance: Involving locals to report peddlers.
Rehab Centers: Opened new de-addiction facilities.

Yet, Op Sindoor’s controversy raises questions: Is Punjab losing the drug war?

Political Angle: AAP vs BJP Ahead of 2024 Elections

The timing of this clash is critical, with the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approaching.

BJP’s Strategy

Paint AAP as “weak on drugs & national security.”
Use Punjab’s drug crisis to rally Hindutva votes by linking it to “Pakistani threats.”

AAP’s Counter

Argue that central agencies ignore state police.
Position Mann as a “strong regional leader” resisting Delhi’s interference.

Conclusion: Who is Right?

The Op Sindoor controversy highlights deeper issues:

Accountability vs Politics: Should anti-drug ops be transparent, or is Mann’s demand a political move?
State vs Centre Tussle: Can Punjab & Delhi work together, or will clashes continue?
Pakistan’s Role: Is the BJP exaggerating cross-border links, or is AAP in denial?

One thing is clear: Punjab’s drug crisis needs unity, not blame games. Until then, the victims—addicts and their families—will keep suffering.

Sources

(Include links to credible reports from The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, ANI, or PTI for verification.

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