Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu on Friday alleged that his cavalcade was attacked near Batala in Punjab while he was travelling to Pathankot to participate in the party’s anti-drug campaign.
Bittu alleged that more than 100 people, whom he identified as Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers, targeted his convoy when it slowed down on the way to Pathankot. He claimed that stones and eggs were thrown at the vehicles during the incident.
According to the BJP leader, two escort vehicles suffered damage, with their window panes being broken. He also alleged that the vehicle carrying a security jammer was damaged in the attack.
Bittu further alleged that the police personnel present at the spot did not take effective action to stop the protesters. He questioned how the group was able to know about his movement and route despite his security arrangements.
The BJP leader said his security personnel managed to apprehend three people following the incident. He also said that he had informed the Union Home Ministry about what he described as a serious security concern.
Bittu warned that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the state’s Director General of Police would be responsible if he or anyone travelling with him suffered any harm.
The incident occurred as Bittu was heading towards Pathankot for the launch of the BJP’s anti-drug yatra, being initiated by party president Nitin Nabin. The campaign is part of the BJP’s outreach against drug abuse in Punjab.
The allegations made by Bittu could not be independently verified immediately. Batala Senior Superintendent of Police Mehtab Singh was not available for comment. A police account of the incident and details of any action taken in the matter are awaited.
