PM Modi in Punjab: Slams AAP on Drugs, Law and Order, References Tahir Hussain

Modi’s Jalandhar Blitz: Projects and Political Attacks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Jalandhar on Friday, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹5,470 crore. The event was part of a broader push to showcase the Centre’s work in the state ahead of the next assembly elections.

But the Prime Minister’s speech quickly moved from infrastructure to sharp political attacks on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab. He did not hold back, labelling the state government a 'Kattar Beimaan Party' — a phrase that drew immediate reaction from supporters and critics alike.

‘Kattar Beimaan Party’: Modi’s Barbs on Corruption and Law and Order

Modi accused the AAP dispensation of failing on multiple fronts. “The people of Punjab are suffering because of a government that makes big promises but delivers nothing,” he said. He specifically targeted the state’s law and order situation, claiming incidents of violence and crime had risen under the current regime.

The Prime Minister also brought up the name of Tahir Hussain, a controversial figure linked to the 2020 Delhi riots. His reference appeared to be aimed at connecting AAP’s alliance politics with alleged support for anti-national elements. Officials in the party quickly dismissed the remark as an attempt to divert attention from local issues.

Drug Menace in Focus

Modi devoted a significant portion of his speech to Punjab’s long-standing drug problem. He alleged that the state government had done little to curb the supply of narcotics, which he described as a “national security threat.” The Centre, he said, had provided all possible support, but the state’s failure to act was costing young lives.

The drug issue has been a political hot potato in Punjab for years. Previous governments have faced similar accusations, and the current AAP administration has promised strict action. However, Modi’s remarks suggested that the Centre sees little improvement on the ground.

Chandigarh as a Model

Earlier in the day, Modi also praised Chandigarh, calling it a “symbol of planned growth” and a “model of development for India.” He used the city’s example to contrast what he described as the chaos in Punjab’s governance. “Where there is discipline and vision, there is progress,” he said, in a clear dig at the state government.

The Prime Minister’s visit is being seen as part of the BJP’s strategy to regain a foothold in Punjab, where it has been out of power for years. The party has been working to position itself as a credible alternative to both AAP and the Congress.

What to watch: The AAP government is expected to respond formally in the coming days. With assembly elections due next year, the war of words between the Centre and the state is only likely to intensify.