By Amrit Pal Sidhu
Bathinda: 17 October 2026
AICC Incharge of Punjab Sachin Pilot, along with Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President Pargat Singh and senior Congress leader Vijender Singla, today visited the residence of slain Bathinda businessman Harjinder Singh Johal, popularly known as Mela, to express solidarity with his family and raise concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab.
Harjinder Singh Johal, 53, owner of Harman Amritsari Kulcha and president of the Mall Road Market Association, was shot dead outside his shop in Bathinda on October 28, 2023.
Addressing the media during the visit, PPCC President Pargat Singh expressed serious concern over the continuing drug menace in Punjab, alleging that the state's youth continue to suffer under the present government. He said allegations of political patronage and police complicity in the drug trade warranted a thorough investigation and accountability.
“Drugs continue to destroy Punjab’s youth. Allegations of political patronage and police complicity in the drug trade demand a thorough investigation and accountability,” Pargat Singh said.
Senior District Congress Committee (DCC), Bathinda, leaders Jeet Mohinder Sidhu, Rajan Gupta, Pawan Maani, Kewal Krishan Aggarwal, Tehal Singh Sandhu and Darshan Singh Jida, along with other prominent Congress leaders, were present on the occasion.