Sat Jan 17 03:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Akali Dal Alleges Threat to Jailed Leader Majithia’s Life, Cites Intelligence Inputs

The Story:
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) met with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on January 17, 2026, alleging that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) state government has failed to adequately protect jailed party leader Bikram Singh Majithia, despite intelligence reports indicating a threat to his life from the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). The SAD delegation, led by Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Daljit Singh Cheema, and Ganieve Kaur Majithia, submitted a representation to the Governor, urging his intervention to ensure Majithia’s safety and to address what they perceive as violations of his fundamental rights. The party also raised concerns about alleged intimidation of the Punjab Kesari newspaper group by the AAP government.

Key Points:

  • SAD alleges a “grave threat” to Bikram Singh Majithia’s life in Nabha jail, citing intelligence inputs pointing to a potential assassination attempt by Babbar Khalsa International (BKI).
  • The party claims the AAP government is doing “nothing concrete” to safeguard Majithia’s life, despite High Court directions.
  • SAD alleges that additional cameras are being installed in Majithia’s cell as an “eyewash” and an invasion of privacy, potentially targeting his religious sentiments by aiming cameras towards the washroom.
  • Majithia reportedly informed the chief judicial magistrate about the threat to his life after the jail superintendent remained silent.
  • The party asserts that intelligence inputs regarding the threat were leaked to the media, drawing parallels with the circumstances surrounding the murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala.
  • SAD also raised concerns about alleged government intimidation of the Punjab Kesari newspaper group through raids and cessation of advertisements.
  • The Punjab government has issued a statement rejecting the Punjab Kesari group’s allegations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The SAD is attempting to leverage fears of political violence and government overreach to pressure the Punjab government and potentially garner public sympathy.
  • The allegations of privacy violations and disrespect for religious sentiments add a volatile dimension to the situation, potentially inflaming public opinion.
  • The comparison to the Sidhu Moosewala case highlights the sensitivity surrounding security threats to prominent figures in Punjab and the potential for escalation.

Impact Analysis:
This situation could have significant political ramifications. The SAD’s accusations, if they gain traction, could undermine the AAP government’s credibility and raise questions about its ability to maintain law and order. The safety and security of political prisoners will become a major point of contention. Furthermore, the allegations of press intimidation could raise concerns about freedom of the press under the current administration, potentially drawing criticism from national and international media organizations. How the Governor and central government respond to these allegations will be crucial in shaping the future political landscape of Punjab.

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