The arrest of senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia by the Punjab Vigilance Department has triggered strong political reactions, with SAD leaders alleging political vendetta and drawing parallels to the Emergency era.

Speaking to reporters, SAD spokesperson and senior leader Daljit Singh Cheema sharply criticized the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government, calling the arrest a “pre-scripted political move” aimed at silencing opposition voices.

“An Emergency-like situation was created yesterday during the arrest of Bikram Singh Majithia. The overwhelming presence of security forces, especially around the court premises, reminded us of the days when democracy was throttled,” Cheema said.

He also alleged that the case against Majithia was "fabricated" and accused state ministers of conducting a "parallel media trial" by discussing the matter openly on news channels even before any legal conclusion had been reached.

Majithia, a prominent SAD leader and former cabinet minister, was taken into custody on Thursday in connection with an alleged corruption and disproportionate assets case. The arrest came following months of investigation by the Vigilance Bureau.