Former Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu has reportedly received a life-threatening call from an individual claiming to be associated with the notorious terror organization Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. The threat, which has sparked significant security concerns, was allegedly made in the name of Malik Ishaq, a prominent leader of the Pakistan-based militant group. This development comes at a time when political tensions in Punjab are already high, following a series of incidents involving the BJP leader.
Details of the Threatening Call
According to the inputs received, the caller used highly provocative and threatening language during the conversation with Ravneet Singh Bittu, while the individual on the other end of the line reportedly told the former minister that a 1 kg box had been prepared for him. The caller further warned that as soon as Bittu came under their target, they would execute their plan, which would result in the deaths of many people. The mention of a 1 kg box is being viewed with extreme seriousness by security agencies, as it could imply the use of an explosive device. The caller specifically used the phrase that the work would be done when he comes under their jaw, indicating a targeted strike.
Alleged Attack on Convoy in Batala
Prior to this death threat, Ravneet Singh Bittu had claimed that his convoy was targeted by political opponents. The incident allegedly took place near Batala in Punjab. Bittu asserted that workers belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) were responsible for the attack. At the time of the incident, the BJP leader was on his way to Pathankot to participate in an anti-drug rally organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party. The rally was being spearheaded by BJP leader Nitin Naveen to raise awareness against the drug menace in the state.
Bittu provided a detailed account of the attack, stating that a mob of more than 100 AAP workers surrounded his convoy. He alleged that the protesters threw stones and eggs at his vehicles, while the intensity of the attack was such that the glass windows of 2 vehicles in the convoy were shattered. On top of that, a jammer vehicle, which is a critical part of his security detail, also sustained damage during the ruckus. Bittu pointed out that the attack occurred when the convoy had slowed down near Batala, providing the attackers with an opportunity to strike. He further alleged that the local police remained silent spectators throughout the entire episode, failing to intervene or provide protection.
Accusations Against State Administration
The former Union Minister didn't mince words when criticizing the local law enforcement and the state government, while he alleged that the local police failed to take any proactive measures to protect the convoy or disperse the mob. Bittu stated that if any harm were to come to him or the personnel accompanying him, the responsibility would lie squarely with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state. He expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation for political leaders in the state.
In response to these security breaches, Bittu confirmed that the matter has been formally brought to the attention of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into both the physical attack and the subsequent death threat. Reports indicate that Bittu's private security team managed to apprehend 3 individuals at the scene of the convoy attack. However, there has been no immediate official statement or reaction from the Punjab Police regarding the allegations or the arrests made by the security team.
Political and Family Background
Ravneet Singh Bittu is a prominent political figure in Punjab and is the grandson of the late Beant Singh, the former Chief Minister of Punjab. Bittu's family has a long history of involvement in the state's political landscape. His recent participation in the anti-drug rally in Pathankot, which was started by BJP President Nitin Naveen, highlights his active role in current state issues, while the combination of a physical attack by political workers and a death threat from a terror group leader like Malik Ishaq has raised the stakes for his personal security and the political climate in Punjab.