PM Modi in Jalandhar: Slams AAP over Tahir Hussain case, accuses party of appeasement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Jalandhar on Friday, launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the recent conviction of former councillor Tahir Hussain. He accused the party of following a policy of appeasement and called it a 'Kattar Beimaan Party' (extremely dishonest party).

The PM's blistering remarks come at a time when Punjab is gearing up for elections. Modi did not hold back, holding AAP accountable for what he described as a breakdown of law and order and rampant corruption in the state.

PM Modi slams AAP over Tahir Hussain case

Modi directly connected the Tahir Hussain conviction to what he called AAP's 'vote bank politics'. He alleged that the party protects those who indulge in crime for the sake of electoral gains.

"The conviction of Tahir Hussain is a slap on the face of those who practice appeasement," the Prime Minister said. He accused the AAP government of shielding criminals and undermining the security of common citizens.

The PM's speech drew a sharp contrast between the BJP's governance model and that of AAP. He asserted that the BJP believes in 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' while AAP only cares about its vote bank.

Development push in Jalandhar

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several development projects worth over ₹5,470 crore in Jalandhar. These projects span across rail, road, and urban infrastructure.

"Even though the BJP is not in power here, we are committed to the development of Punjab," Modi said. He emphasised that his government does not discriminate between states and works for the welfare of all citizens.

The projects include highway expansions, railway station redevelopment, and new industrial corridors. The PM said these initiatives will generate employment and boost economic activity in the region.

BJP's push in Punjab ahead of elections

The visit is significant as it comes ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Punjab. The BJP is making a concerted push to expand its footprint in the state, where it has traditionally been a marginal player.

Modi attacked AAP on multiple fronts. He accused the party of failing to deliver on its promises of free electricity, water, and education. "The people of Punjab have realised that AAP is a party of empty promises," he said.

• He accused the AAP government of corruption in the liquor policy and other schemes.
• He criticised the law and order situation in the state, citing rising incidents of crime.
• He said the BJP is the only party that can ensure development and security.

Political analysts say the PM's aggressive tone indicates the BJP's strategy to corner AAP on governance failures. The party is hoping to make inroads in Punjab by highlighting the alleged misrule of the AAP government.

What to watch: The political temperature in Punjab is set to rise further. The BJP's campaign is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with more high-profile visits and rallies planned across the state.