AAP MLA Pathanmajra’s security cover withdrawn

The Aam Aadmi Party on Monday withdrew the security cover of its Sanaur MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra, besides shifting all SHOs and police post heads in the constituency.

The development came a day after Pathanmajra alleged that senior Irrigation Department officials and the state government had denied permission for the desilting of riverbeds.

Following orders from the top brass, the Patiala police immediately summoned back eight gunmen attached with the MLA as part of his security team. The MLA was given additional security cover few months ago after he complained of received threat calls.

Information gathered by The Tribune revealed that the district police, in its orders on September 1, shifted SHOs of Sanaur, Julka and Sadar police stations in the constituency. In-charges of four police posts were also shifted.

“It was bound to happen as the MLA had spoken against his own government. Two years ago, a similar treatment was meted out to the Nabha MLA after he made some political statements that were not liked by the AAP political top brass,” said a police official.

“I know who is calling the shots. The orders are political and came straight from AAP’s Delhi top brass to frighten anyone who speaks his mind,” Pathanmajra said.

“I have never bowed politically to anyone, nor will ever do so. My conscience is alive,” he said. Despite having received threats, his entire security cover was withdrawn in the morning, he claimed.

“They cannot frighten me by withdrawing security or filing any case via the Vigilance Bureau. If my constituency suffers, I cannot be silent. I appeal to CM Bhagwant Mann to stand up against the Delhi lobby that was taking anti-Punjab decisions,” he said.

Pathanmajra maintained that he had only raised the issues concerning the people of his constituency. “By withdrawing security and shifting some cops, the Delhi brass wants to give a signal to other Punjab MLAs that if they speak their mind, this is how they will be dealt with. I am sure those who have some conscience left, will speak their mind sooner than later,” he said.

Senior police officials could not be contacted for comments on the issue despite repeated efforts.