The congressional-led government of Punjab became embroiled in another controversy that erupted with the appointment of Balwinder Singh Kotlabama – the brother of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) – as chairman of Punjab Genco Limited, which reports to the Department. new and renewable sources. of energy.
Balwinder Singh, and considered close to State Cabinet Minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, is the relative of the US-based “banned” pro-Khalistan group, Avtar Singh Pannu, a member of the Sikhs for Justice. Avtar Singh, the coordinator of the SFJ in the United States (US), is said to be number two in the pro-Kahlistani organization after its leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu. He is also on the radar of Indian agencies for his pro-Khalistan activities.
Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has been declared an “illegal association” by the Indian government under the Illegal Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Balwinder’s appointment has now sparked a massive outcry with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) describing him as “open terrorist appeasement”. It rose to prominence days after Punjabi Congress President Navjot Singh Sidhu praised Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, saying he was like his older brother.
“The chief minister should respond to the people on this matter,” said SAD chairman Sukhbir Singh Badal.
Denigrating the Congressional government in Punjab for “appeasing anti-national and disruptive forces, BJP national secretary general Tarun Chugh said it was reprehensible how the Channi government was crumbling under pressure anti-national forces.
“It seemed perfectly in tune with the chairman of the Punjab Pradesh congressional committee, Navjot Sidhu, praising Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who sent drones, drugs and ISI agents to India,” Chugh said, adding that the government of Charanjit Singh Channi had shamed him. to the state by designating a person with links to banned pro-Khalistan elements.
Demanding Kotlabama’s immediate removal from his post, Chugh said congressional support for such anti-national forces would be opposed tooth and nail by the BJP.
