Wed Jun 25 19:36:33 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the text you provided, formatted for an Indian audience and written from the perspective of “The Hindu,” reflecting the newspaper’s listed offerings:

**The Hindu: National News**

**Former Punjab Minister Majithia Arrested in Drug Money Laundering Case**

*Chandigarh, June 26, 2025:* Former Punjab Minister and senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia was arrested Wednesday by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) in connection with an alleged drug money laundering scheme. The arrest has triggered a political firestorm, with opposition parties accusing the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of political vendetta.

The VB statement detailed that the arrest stems from a 2021 case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, alleging that Mr. Majithia facilitated illicit drug trafficking, financed drug operations, and engaged in criminal conspiracy.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Punjab Police reportedly uncovered a “massive laundering of drug money,” allegedly facilitated by Mr. Majithia. The VB statement claims preliminary investigations revealed the laundering of over ₹540 crore of drug money, including:

* ₹161 crore in unaccounted cash deposited in bank accounts of companies controlled by Mr. Majithia.
* ₹141 crore channelled through suspected foreign entities.
* ₹236 crore in excess deposits unaccounted for in financial statements.
* Acquisition of assets without legitimate income sources.

The VB statement indicated that the arrest was based on the SIT report and legal procedures were followed. “More arrests, searches, and seizures are expected,” the statement added.

**Political Reactions:**

SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the arrest as “political vendetta,” accusing the AAP government of targeting Mr. Majithia for his vocal opposition. Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa echoed these sentiments, calling the arrest a violation of democratic principles. BJP’s Punjab chief Sunil Jakhar emphasized the need for balanced enforcement and accused the government of selective targeting.

AAP leader and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema rejected the allegations of political vendetta, stating that the government is committed to eradicating the drug trade and holding those involved accountable, regardless of their power.

The arrest has sharply divided political opinions across Punjab, raising concerns about the fairness and impartiality of law enforcement under the current AAP administration. The situation is likely to further intensify the political climate in the state.

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