Patiala | Updated: February 03, 2026, 04:34 PM IST
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Punjab cabinet minister Bikram Singh Majithia walked out of Nabha Jail on Tuesday, ending a seven-month incarceration after the Supreme Court granted him bail in a disproportionate assets case. His release triggered high drama outside the prison, where hundreds of Akali workers had gathered since Monday evening in anticipation.
Release Delayed Amid Legal Formalities
Majithia’s release was delayed for several hours due to procedural requirements, with his legal team remaining inside the jail complex for much of the day. His wife, Ganieve Kaur, also arrived at the premises as security arrangements were tightened to manage the swelling crowd.
Punjab Police deployed heavy force around the jail to ensure law and order as supporters raised slogans and waved party flags.
Trademark Gesture and Supporters’ Celebration
As he finally emerged from the jail gates,Bikram Singh Majithia twirled his trademark moustache, drawing loud cheers from party workers. Supporters lifted him onto an open jeep and escorted him amid slogans in his support, turning the moment into a show of political strength.
Majithia is expected to pay obeisance at Gurdwara Dukhniwaran Sahib following his release.
Sharp Message to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
Speaking briefly to the media outside the jail, Majithia launched a sharp attack on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
“I survived on brinjals inside jail. What will be your fate, Bhagwant Mann?” he said, adding,
“Majithia na rukega, na Majithia jhukega.”
His remarks drew loud applause from supporters gathered at the site.
Thanks Leaders Across Party Lines
In a notable political gesture, Majithia thanked leaders from across parties, saying they stood by him during difficult times. He named Sunil Jakhar, Captain Amarinder Singh, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Charanjit Singh Channi, Tarun Chugh, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and Sukhpal Singh Khaira, acknowledging their support despite political differences.
Court Rejected Punjab Government’s Restrictions Plea
Earlier, Majithia’s counsel Damanbir Sobti revealed that the Punjab government had urged the court to impose conditions preventing Majithia from entering the state. The court, however, dismissed the request, allowing his release without such restrictions.
This decision cleared the final hurdle for his exit from jail.
Background of the Case
Majithia was arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on June 25 in a disproportionate assets case allegedly linked to the laundering of ₹540 crore of drug money. Investigators filed a massive 40,000-page chargesheet in a Mohali court on August 22.
The case originated from a 2021 Punjab Police special investigation team probe into drug-related activities. Majithia had earlier secured bail in a separate NDPS Act case, following which the assets case was registered.
Political Impact and What Lies Ahead
Majithia’s release is expected to energize the Shiromani Akali Dal at a time when Punjab’s political climate remains highly charged. His strong remarks and public show of support suggest he plans to stay politically active as legal proceedings continue.