Arshpreet Khadial opposes ‘Lawrence of Punjab’ series, calls it an insult to Punjab

Arshpreet Khadial opposes ‘Lawrence of Punjab’ series, calls it an insult to Punjab

Says glorifying figures like Lawrence Bishnoi is dangerous for youth

Congress to approach High Court with PIL; seeks immediate ban

Chandigarh 21 April ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : Punjab Congress leader Arshpreet Khadial on Tuesday strongly criticised the upcoming web series ‘Lawrence of Punjab’, terming it a direct assault on Punjab’s identity and values. He said attempts to project a gangster as the face of Punjab were not only irresponsible but deeply disrespectful to the state’s legacy. “Punjab is known for its sacrifices, spirituality and courage—not for criminals. Such portrayals distort reality and damage our collective identity,” he asserted.

Khadial pointed out that Lawrence Bishnoi and his network have been linked to multiple violent crimes, including the killing of singer Sidhu Moosewala. “Turning such a figure into mainstream content risks normalising crime and influencing young minds in the worst possible way,” he said. Taking a strong stand, he demanded that the series be stopped from release altogether. “This is not creative freedom—it is reckless glorification of violence,” he remarked.

He also questioned why both the Centre and the state government have remained silent on an issue that directly concerns Punjab’s image and youth. “When such content openly distorts Punjab’s identity, silence becomes complicity,” he added.

Clarifying further, Khadial said Bishnoi has no real connection with Punjab, as he belongs to Rajasthan and is currently lodged in Sabarmati Jail in Gujarat. He announced that the Congress will move a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Punjab and Haryana High Court to seek a complete ban on the series, warning that such content could have serious social consequences if allowed to be aired.