Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former Punjab minister Bikram Singh Majithia was released from jail on Tuesday, a day after being granted bail in a disproportionate assets case. His release has once again brought political tensions in Punjab into sharp focus.

Speaking to reporters after walking out of jail, Majithia strongly criticized the Aam Aadmi Party led Punjab government, alleging that it had targeted him for political reasons. He claimed the government did not want him to come out alive and said he would continue his political fight without fear or compromise.

Majithia also thanked several political leaders across party lines, including Sunil Jakhar, former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, former chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi, BJP leader Tarun Chugh, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira. He said their support during what he described as a difficult period was significant.

Meanwhile, Majithia’s counsel said the Punjab government had sought directions from a Mohali court to restrict Majithia from staying in Punjab while out on bail, allowing him to enter the state only on court appearance dates. The court, however, rejected the government’s request.

Political observers say Majithia’s release could energize the Shiromani Akali Dal at a time when the party is seeking to regain ground in Punjab, while also intensifying the ongoing confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition.