Bhagwant Mann: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has doubled down on his “zero tolerance” policy against organised crime after the Punjab Police neutralised the main accused in the murder of RSS leader Naveen Arora. The encounter, which unfolded during a targeted police operation, has once again pushed the state’s fight against gangster networks into the spotlight.
How the Encounter Unfolded
According to police sources, the accused, who had been evading arrest since the November attack in Firozpur, was tracked down following specific intelligence inputs. Officers say the suspect attempted to flee and opened fire, prompting retaliatory action that led to his neutralisation. The incident marks a major breakthrough in a case that had generated widespread concern, especially after investigators indicated the killing was carried out with careful planning and possible external coordination.
CM Mann Targets Past Administrations
Responding to the developments, Chief Minister Mann said the police action shows that criminal elements will no longer find room to operate in Punjab. He noted that earlier governments looked the other way or allowed gangs to grow under political protection, but the present administration is committed to dismantling their influence completely.
No Leniency for Organised Crime
Mann emphasised that no individual linked to organised crime, however influential or well-connected, will be spared. He insisted that Punjab’s law-and-order machinery is alert, empowered and determined to act swiftly wherever threats emerge. The Chief Minister also reassured residents that the government stands firmly with the families and communities impacted by such targeted killings.
Investigation Still Ongoing
He added that investigations into the wider network behind Naveen Arora’s death are still underway. Police have already arrested two alleged shooters, and teams are continuing to track others suspected to be part of the conspiracy. The Chief Minister said that every link in the chain, including potential financiers, handlers or external elements, will be brought to light.
Punjab’s Peace Is Non-Negotiable
Mann underlined that protecting Punjab’s peace is a non-negotiable responsibility. The neutralisation of the prime accused, he said, sends a strong signal: the state will not allow gangsters to dictate fear or disturb social harmony. The campaign against organised crime, he declared, will continue until Punjab is completely free of such elements.
